This episode is a look at the evolution and current state of Latin Jazz.  Keyboard legend Eddie Palmieri and flute virtuoso Dave Valentin perform and talk with me about the genesis of Latin Jazz.  Discussion ranges from the early days of Xavier Cugat and the rumba, to the Afro-Cuban stylings of Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker (picked up from Latin jazz giants Chano Pozo and Machito), to the great Latin Jazz artists of the 1950s and early ‘60s, including Chico O’Farrell, Perez Prado, Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaria, Ray Barretto, Willie Bobo and more. 

During our taping schedule, not only were people tapping their toes as usual, but it was all we could do to keep them in their seats while Eddie Palmieri and Dave Valentin spun their high-energy magic.

Eddie Palmieri –  Eddie Palmieri's musical career spans 50 years, and his discography includes more than 30 titles.  He has received eight GRAMMY Awards, including the first ever in the Best Latin Album category.  In 1988, the Smithsonian Institute recorded two of Eddie's performances for its catalog of the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.  In 2002, Yale University awarded him the Chubb Fellowship, an honor usually reserved for heads of state but given to him in recognition of his work building communities through music.  Committed to expanding the recognition of Latin music, Eddie remains a brilliant and vital musical force.  Check out www.eddiepalmierimusic.com for more information.

Dave Valentin – Contemporary jazz and Latin music have produced few instrumentalists as talented and accomplished as Dave Valentin.  For almost two decades, he has practically defined the role of the flute in Latin jazz.  A remarkable musician, composer, arranger and band leader, Dave boasts a command of both Latin and non-Latin styles that makes him a unique presence in the music world.  This best-selling Latin instrumental artist has performed on more than 15 albums and is a GRAMMY Award winner.  Dave’s success stems from his eagerness to absorb any style of music – and his passion for mastering the most challenging instruments in the flute universe.  Check out http://www.fantasma.com/artist_rep/artist-dave_valentine.html for more information.