CARLOS JIMENEZ - THOUGHTS (2008)

This is a pleasant collection to anyone who loves contemporary smooth jazz.

Carlos Jimenez Flute
Ruben Rodriguez Bass
Vince Cherico Drums
Fidel Cuellar Piano

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review by Paul J. Youngman - KJA Advocate for VINILEMANIA.NET

Carlos Jimenez has a new CD, his third release, entitled Thoughts (Pensamientos), a Latin jazz smooth cruise that sails through eleven Jimenez compositions with moments of excitement, passion, beauty and a fine sense of musicality. Mr. Jimenez is a gifted flutist; he is joined on this outing by Ruben Rodriguez (bass), Vince Cherico (drums) and Fidel Cuellar (piano). The rhythm section combines to provide excellent accompaniment and tasteful fills when called upon. The original compositions follow similar patterns. The songs flow, combining elements of smooth jazz with hip Latin rhythms performed in a funky groove.

The opening track “Carlitos My Son” is in a smooth jazz style, a pleasing melody with easy to take laid back rhythms in a moderate tempo. The feature is Carlos Jimenez playing a listenable flute solo. Playing in a mid range tone he delivers a fine sound and the song develops into an exciting opener.

The song “No Te Apures (Don’t Worry)” is also performed smooth but has a much funkier rhythm section. The bass player, Ruben Rodriguez puts heart and soul into this number. Vince Cherico adds some serious funk to the mix. And keeping everything on the same page is pianist Fidel Cuellar, solid chords that drive the rhythm home and allow for spirited playing by the other members of the band.

One of the highlight tunes of the CD is “Swift”. Charging out of the single beat intro headlong into a fast tempo. The flute of Mr. Jimenez takes flight, laying a trail of inspired playing. With long single notes that sustain and blend rapidly into trills and flutters, with smooth changes to melodically hit notes of pleasing sounds, with bird like singing that cascades into screams of passion that fade gracefully to an impassioned plea. A pure statement of excitement that cracks the smooth jazz mold.

On the song “Life Is Great” Mr. Jimenez plays as a man on a mission, another exciting tune. He opens the door for the pianist Fidel Cuellar and with playing that sounds as joyous as the title of the song, Cuellar burns through an emotional feature.

Thoughts is a very positive outing for Carlos Jimenez, the playing is joyful, upbeat and easy listening. The songs are all about passion, spirit, love and how things should be. What’s not to like?