Mongo Santamaria's "Espiritu Libre," released on January 1, 2007, under the West Side Beat label, is a vibrant journey into the heart of Latin jazz. This album, spanning a concise 40 minutes, is a testament to Santamaria's mastery of genres like cha cha cha, son cubano, and mambo. The tracklist features a blend of original compositions and collaborations, including "Manana Wilson," "Tish," and the title track "Espiritu Libre." Santamaria's expertise shines through in tracks like "Zimbabwe" and "Power Struggle," showcasing his ability to infuse traditional Latin rhythms with modern jazz sensibilities. The album also includes "Tracey" and "You Are On My Mind," adding a touch of melodic depth to the collection. "Espiritu Libre" is not just an album; it's a celebration of Mongo Santamaria's enduring influence on Latin jazz, making it a captivating listen for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Vinylscout