Release Date: 25 July 2005
Label: OTA Records
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 616444101526
Genres: Jazz  World Music  
Release Date: 25 July 2005
Label: OTA Records
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 616444101526
Genres: Jazz  World Music  
Description
While Omar Sosa is often lauded for his high-energy, percussive piano style, he also has a profound sense of expression in the delicate, lyrical realm. In this collection of ballads, loosely defined, taken from four of his early recordings, we are treated to a listening experience of beautiful melody and rich harmony, full of romanticism and grace - all with a Latin jazz heart.
The compilation opens with Omar Sosa's signature ballad, "Mis Tres Notas", taken from his first ensemble recording, Free Roots, and closes with the beautiful love song "Shirma" from the same album, featuring the artistry of reedman Sheldon Brown on bass clarinet. Also from Free Roots there is "Raya", this time with Sheldon Brown on alto saxophone.
From Omar Sosa's second ensemble CD, Spirit Of The Roots, there is "Para Ella", with Sheldon Brown on tenor saxophone, "Antes De Ir Va Esto", with John Calloway on flute and Orestes Vilato on timbal, and "Tienes Un Solo" featuring the divine Anastacia (Newkirk) on vocals.
From the final recording of Omar Sosa 's Roots Trilogy, Bembón, there's "Gracias Señor" and "Para Dos Parados", both featuring poignant string arrangements and the latler featuring the exquisite vocal styling of María Márquez.
Finally, from the groundbreaking CD Prietos, come two very delicate pieces, "Fragile", again featuring vocalist María Márquez, and "Twice As Sad" with Sheldon Brown on tenor saxophone.
Ballads has a remarkable unity and organic quality, carrying the listener away on a relaxed, dream-like journey. For Omar Sosa fans who may have missed some of his early ensemble recordings, or for those who have enjoyed the quieter, more introspective dimensions of this remarkable artist, the album is a must-have. For those new to Omar Sosa it is a very accessible beginning.
Tracklisting
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa & Yilian Canizares
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa & NDR Bigband
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa & NDR Bigband
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa
Omar Sosa