STACCATOFY
by Steph Cosme
Rating: 93
Bill O’Connell, Winds Off The Hudson Review
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Bill O’Connell is a matador of Latin Jazz. Involved since the 70s his sense of authenticity is matchless. On his latest album Winds Off The Hudson, O’Connell gathers a masterful line up of Andrea Brachfeld – flute (tracks 1, 3, 5, 7–10), alto flute (track 4); Craig Handy – alto sax (tracks 1-3, 6, 7, 9 & 10) soprano sax (track 8); Ralph Bowen – tenor sax; Gary Smulyan – baritone sax; Alex Sipiagin – trumpet, flugelhorn (track 4 only); Conrad Herwig – trombone; Lincoln Goines – electric bass; Robby Ameen – drums; Roman Diaz – congas (except track 4). If you are not breathless after reading these herculean names in Latin jazz and the salsa scene, then certainly after one listen you will be.
Positives: O’Connell has a lyrical approach, but his muscularity within that lyricism is to be noted.
