Album Review of
Latin Lounge

Written by Joe Ross
January 22, 2020 - 12:25am EST
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Percussionist Frank Colon assembled a cast of 15 other accomplished musicians to join him on his warmly produced and original “Latin Lounge” project. Colón’s impressive resume includes considerable experience in both the New York and Brazilian jazz scenes. In some numbers like “Easy Does It,” Colon’s “lounge/world” music has a soothing quality that is both mesmerizing and reflective, while other tracks like “Samba Gitano” and “Wishful Thinking” are more explosive. On first impression, one might feel that some songs have underlying rhythmic or melodic currents of repetitive predictability. Closer listens will yield many examples of the musicians’ confidence, evocative messages, and interpretive twists. I especially enjoyed the variety of sounds offered on “Latin Lounge.” Opening with “Emerald Coast,” we hear Carlos Malta’s 18th century ebony flute, and “Let’s Just Go” is a showcase for Elton Ricardo’s Fender Rhodes piano. “Samba Gitano” shines the spotlight on Estevao Lima’s bass and Kleyton Martins’ keyboards. Jose Staneck’s harmonica is featured on “Easy Does It,” while Jamie Glaser’s acoustic guitar work shines on “Spanish Heart.” I enjoyed Jose Arimateia’s trumpet on “Bali,” and “Tango Lucumi” is a standout with Roman Miroshnichenko’s flamenco guitar and Mateus Viano’s accordion. Colon has lofty goals for his music. He hopes it will move your body, touch your heart, soothe your soul, raise your consciousness, bring people together, and promote peace. With vision, spirit and sensitivity, “Latin Lounge” goes a long ways towards meeting his objectives.  (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)