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>>Salsa catalogue >>CD Details
Grupo X
'X-POSURE'
(LOFTCD001)
Description:
Musicians:
Jonny Enright - trombone
Trevor Mires - trombone
Finn Peters - alto sax, flute
Jimmy Le Messurier - timbales
Pete Eckford - congas
Simon Edwards - bass
John Crawford - piano
Olly Drew - guitar, vocals
Carlos Pena - vocals, percussion
Label - Loft Records
Releases 2001
Band web site:
www.Grupo-X.com
GRUPO X:
NEW LATIN JAZZ WITH A LONDON FLAVOUR!
Grupo X are one of Europe’s leading latin jazz groups. Led by
trombonist Jonny Enright and based in London, they initially evolved
as an offshoot of the UK’s premier salsa band of the 90’s, Orquesta
La Clave.
The band soon acquired a style of it’s own. A blend of classic Nuyorican
salsa and latin jazz of the 70’s mixed with bugalu and soul. Add a touch
of English vocals and a love for the classic dancefloor jazz sounds of
London in the 80’s and the fusion was complete. Latin jazz/funk DJ and
percussionist Snowboy is the band’s biggest fan. Their track
“Brand New Love” featured on his “Snowboy Presents The Hi-Hat”
compilation on Ocho Records in 2000.
Live, the band have a reputation for “kickin’ ass”! They are house
latin band at London’s Jazz Café, especially at the “Messin’
Around” and “The Hi-Hat” club nights. They’ve backed U.S. percussion
stars Johnny Blas and Bobby Matos, legendary vibes man Dave
Pike, Cuban master pianist Alfredo Rodriguez, and
number one Nuyorican trombonist Jimmy Bosch. That’s one hell
of a list!
What about the music? Firstly, all compositions are original material! That
on its own is a great achievement. But the fact that they are great tunes
too, and swing like crazy, must also be applauded. Main composer is Jonny
Enright, himself, with major input from fellow band members Jimmy
Le Messurier, Carlos Pena, Pete Eckford,
and sometime X-man Dave Pattman.
The playing on the album is top-notch and every facet of latin jazz is
covered. Opener “Brand New Love” is a UK jazz dance classic in the
Dingwalls/Hi-Hat tradition, featuring soul-diva Lisa Millett
on vocals. “X-Posure” is a funky Mozambique. Vocal tune “Jonny’s
Bugalu” is a party number – handclapping, footstomping latin soul.
“Guaguanco en Chicago Chico” is pure rumba jazz. “Mi Tumbao”, a son
montuno with more Spanish vocals. “Why?” is smooth latin jazz.
“Eye2Eye” is a soulful latin tune, heavy on the groove and drenched with
the blues! A dancefloor hit for sure, with a passing nod to Herbie Mann
and War! Final tune “The X-Factor” features guest vibes-man Roger
Beaugolais in full Bobby Hutcherson mode- a nice touch
to end a great and varied album.
Grupo X have made their reputation in UK with some heavy
hitting live gigs. People are talking. When latin legends like Bobby Matos
and Jimmy Bosch sing your praises, you know you must be doing
something right! Now it’s time for the rest of the world to hear their
message and see what all the fuss is about. Enjoy this unique brand of
London latin soul jazz, and be sure to watch out for future releases - Grupo
X are here to stay.
Lubi Jovanovic
Casa Latina + Straight No Chaser
‘If you don’t move to the groove that Grupo X has created on this
one you might as well pack it in.’
Erik “Chico” Manqueros
The Latin Style of Jazz & LatinJazzClub.com
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Grupo X
'X-POSURE'
(LOFTCD001)
| Song Titles |
1. Brand New Love
(mp3
sample)
(J. Enright - J. LeMessurier)
2. X Posure
(mp3
sample)
(J. Enright - J. LeMessurier)
3. Jonnys Bugalu
(mp3
sample)
(J. Enright - C. A. Pena - D. Pattman)
4. Guaguanco En Chicago Chico
(mp3
sample)
(J. LeMessurier)
5. Mi Tumbao
(mp3
sample)
(J. Enright - C. A. Pena)
6. Why
(mp3
sample)
(J. Enright)
7. Eye 2 Eye
(mp3
sample)
(P. Eckford - J. LeMessurier)
8. The X Factor
(mp3
sample)
(J. Enright)
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Our
mp3 samples are approximately 1 minute long and of low(ish)
quality for a fast download
(file size app 350KB). |
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