Sacumba

Album Review

Born in Argentina, but resident in the U.S. since 1992, percussion master Luis Garay obviously likes the sound of the drum. Along with three other percussionists, he explores a number of Afro-Latin styles on this disc, getting deep inside the sound, often with some stunning playing (just listen to some of the work on the samba "Sambazo," for example). And even if you're not a lover of rhythm standing virtually alone, there's enough going on here to entrance your ears. Especially enthralling is the dense "Afro-Chin," which evolves beautifully, with some stunning marimba work that grows in intensity all the way to the conclusion. In fact, the marimba tracks are some of the loveliest on here, in part, perhaps, because they do offer melody, as on "Marimba Azucar." But it's always the rhythms at the heart, and with these excellent players, they're multi-layer, one springing off another (and recorded with great clarity — you can pick out every beat of each instrument). They make even the most complex things, such as "Afro 11/8" sound perfectly natural, no small feat, while propelling other pieces at a fiery pace. And the Argentinean flavor of "Chacara" is irresistible. Without ever being academic, Garay instructs — and entertains.