Vázquez, a native of Philadelphia, PA, is a 35 year veteran in the Latin and Jazz genres. An 2011 NEA Latino Master, and 2008 Grammy nominee, Vazquez continues his forward thrust maintaining his Afro-Caribbean roots. There is no denying that the Mighty Pirates Troubadours are as cohesive a musical unit as any other on the scene today.
“Oasis”, showcases the musical compositions, and orchestrations, of Vazquez. The production includes such talents as Regina Carter (Oasis), Wynton Marsalis (Verdura de Apio [The Real McCoy], San Juan de la Maguana, and Plena Drumline ) and Akua Dixon’s Quartette Indigo (Oasis, Redemption, and Igor’s Mail).
The Mighty Pirates Troubadours are all leaders in their own right. First band mate, Willie Williams, on tenor sax, a native of Philadelphia, has been with the band over 20 years. Accompanying Vazquez and Williams are, Dezron Douglas, on bass, Alvester Garnett, on drums, Anthony Carrillo and Carlos Maldonado, on percussion, and the last member to join the band, pianist, Rick Germanson.
Vazquez delves into the rhythms of his native Puerto Rico, such as Bomba Rule, Plena, Bomba Hoyo de Mula, and Bomba Yuba, as well as Merengue, which hails from the Dominican Republic. His use of these rhythms serves as the foundation for his colorful jazz orchestrations.
The Mighty Pirates Troubadours currently have six CD recordings. The last CD, Marooned/Aislado, was a NARAS 2009 Grammy nominee for Best Latin Jazz Recording. The prior CD, From the Badlands, was considered one of 2007’s 10 Best Latin CDs by New York Newsday, as well as one of All About Jazz’s 2008 “Best Latin Jazz Releases”.
All of the music featured on Oasis, is composed and orchestrated by Papo Vazquez. So, brace yourselves, ‘cause these pirates come armed for a musical assault!
For more information visit: www.papovazquez.com
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