West Side Story

Dive into the vibrant and sultry world of Cal Tjader's "West Side Story," a captivating reinterpretation of Leonard Bernstein's iconic score, released on January 1, 2011, by CoolNote. This enchanting album, spanning just 33 minutes, is a testament to Tjader's mastery of Latin jazz, exotica, cool jazz, and Brazilian jazz, with a particular nod to the bossa nova rhythms that he helped popularize.

Cal Tjader, a West Coast vibraphone legend, infuses the classic "West Side Story" tunes with his signature Latin flair, creating a unique and refreshing take on beloved songs like "Maria," "Tonight," and "America." The album opens with a mesmerizing "Prologue - Jet Song" and seamlessly weaves through interludes and iconic tracks, culminating in a breathtaking rendition of "I Feel Pretty - Somewhere."

Tjader's musical journey is a blend of influences, drawing from the likes of Dave Brubeck and Stan Kenton, and his own explorations into Brazilian music. "West Side Story" is not just a collection of songs but a celebration of Tjader's musical evolution and his ability to seamlessly fuse different genres. Each track is a testament to his virtuosity and his deep understanding of rhythm and melody.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Cal Tjader or a newcomer to his music, "West Side Story" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's compact duration makes it an ideal introduction to Tjader's unique sound, while its depth and complexity will keep even the most discerning jazz enthusiasts engaged.

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.