TETE MONTOLIU: BOLEROS

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TETE MONTOLIU
Tete Montoliu (March 28, 1933–August 24, 1997) was a jazz pianist from Catalonia, Spain. His real name was Vicenç Montoliu i Massana. He was born blind, in Barcelona, and died in the same city. Montoliu was particularly influenced by the music of the American jazz pianist Art Tatum, although he soon developed a distinctive style, characterised by a profound musical sensitivity and extraordinary technical skill,
consolidating his reputation as a main referent in the Hard Bop movement. In 1996, shortly before his death, Spain paid public tribute to Tete Montoliu for his outstanding fifty-year career in jazz.
(Source: Wikipedia, edited by CB)
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ALBUM REVIEW
Tete Montoliu, a native of the Catalonian region of Spain, was best-known for his interpretations of standards from the Great American Songbook; he was equally familiar with popular works by jazz greats. This release as a different focus, emphasizing the works of Spanish composers. His quartet includes bassist Manuel Elias, drummer Peer Wyboris and conga player Rogelio Juárez. But Montoliu's style of playing is still steeped in bop,even if the rhythm has a Latin flavor. His driving arrangement of Mario Clavell's "Somos" briefly detours into Kenny Dorham's "Blue Bossa," while "Mienteme" has a jaunty air, performed in waltz time to a Latin beat.
"Somos Novios" is also known in the U.S. as "It's Impossible," yet the pianist's version is far more interesting than the usually hackneyed recordings by pop singers. One song that may be Spanish in flavor but not origin is "Poinciana," which was a huge hit for Ahmad Jamal. Montoliu's rendering of it has its own distinct flavor as he displays his formidable technique. Recommended.
(By Ken Dryden, All Music Guide)
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MINHA OPINIÃO - este é um álbum um tanto quanto "comercial", no qual TM toca boleros. Mas o velho e bom Tete tocava com classe qualquer repertório que lhe caisse às mãos e, como era da sua própria natureza, adornava qualquer canção com o fraseado "bop", essência do seu estilo.
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TETE MONTOLIU: BOLEROS

PERSONNEL:
Tete Montoliu - piano
Manuel Elias - bass
Peer Wyboris - drums
Rogelio Juarez - percussion

TRACKS/FAIXAS:
1. Somos
2. Adoro
3. Miénteme
4. Sabrá Dios
5. Siboney
6. Somos novios
7. Por el amor de una mujer
8. Piel canela
9. Sabor a mi
10. Ponciana