Walkin' with Wally

"Walkin' with Wally" is a captivating journey into the world of Latin jazz, expertly crafted by the legendary vibraphonist Cal Tjader. Released on January 1, 2020, by KnockOut Rhythms, this album is a delightful blend of genres, including Latin jazz, exotica, cool jazz, jazz, Brazilian jazz, and bossa nova. The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Wally Richardson and Art Ryerson on guitar, and Milt Hinton and George Duvivier on bass, creating a rich and dynamic sound that showcases Tjader's virtuosity and musical prowess.

The album is a reissue of two classic LPs, "Concert by the Sea," Volumes 1 & 2, originally recorded live in Carmel on April 20, 1959. This historic performance captures the energy and spontaneity of a live show, making it a standout piece in Tjader's discography. The tracklist includes a mix of original compositions and standards, such as "Round Midnight," "Afro Blue," and "Love Me or Leave Me," each track showcasing Tjader's unique style and innovative approach to the vibraphone.

With a duration of 53 minutes, "Walkin' with Wally" offers a comprehensive exploration of Tjader's musical genius. The album's high-quality 16-Bit/44.1 kHz Stereo recording ensures that every nuance of Tjader's performance is captured, providing an immersive listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of Cal Tjader or a newcomer to his music, "Walkin' with Wally" is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

Cal Tjader, a pioneering force in Latin jazz, is renowned for his mastery of the vibraphone and his unique ability to blend Afro-Cuban rhythms with mainstream jazz elements. Often hailed as the most successful non-Latino Latin musician, Tjader's career spanned a diverse range of musical styles, from cool jazz and bossa nova to exotica and Brazilian jazz. His debut album for Verve, "In a Latin Bag," produced by Creed Taylor, showcases his talent alongside legendary musicians like Armando Peraza and Paul Horn. Tjader's discography, including classics like "Latin Kick" and "San Francisco Moods," offers a rich tapestry of sounds that reflect his deep exploration of African, Caribbean, and Latin American music. Whether leading his own bands or collaborating with jazz greats like Dave Brubeck and George Shearing, Cal Tjader's music continues to captivate audiences with its infectious grooves and innovative spirit.