NOW AVAILABLE!!! "BACKLOG" will be the title of Steve's new recording, and there is, of course, a subtitle in Spanish, "Asuntos Pendientes." On this album, really the 3rd in a series, Steve expands the potential of the guitar in the context of Latin music, and here, the core group features: Rubén Rodríguez(Baby Bass & Elec. Bass), Bobby Allende(Conga & Bongo), Marc Quiñones(Timbal & Perc.), and joined for the 1st time by Mark Walker(Drums). A series of old and dear friends, respected colleagues as guest artists added so much to the music, they include: Rob Mounsey(Keys & Orchestrations); Randy Brecker(Trumpet); Mike Mainieri(Vibes); Bob Mintzer(Tenor Sax) and Tatiana Parra(Voice). In all, they perform Steve's arrangements of compositions by: Thelonious Monk, "Criss Cross"; Greg Osby, "Concepticus in C"; Ornette Coleman, "Latin Genetics" and "Invisible"; Bobby Hutcherson, "Head Start" and "Rojo"; and Andrew Hill, "Catta." The recording features two gorgeous ballads: "Our Town" written by Steve's father, Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen, and "Emily"(Johnny Mandel-Johnny Mercer). Perhaps the great surprise of the album is the interpretation of Stevie Wonder's "Go Home."
Once again, the music was recorded by James Farber at Avatar Studios during January-April, 2016. Michel Granger's beautiful images grace the covers, and gives this 3rd album in the series its own unique look. As a matter of fact, there is a slightly different look for the USA, Japan, and Europe.
