RAY MARTINEZ (BASSIST)

Known for his melodic and percussive style, RAY MARTINEZ has been considered one of the most gifted and prominent bassist/arranger in the contemporary Latin and Salsa music scenes. Ray composed, arranged, recorded and performed for many years with Latin-jazz legend MONGO SANTAMARIA. As the leader and creator of his own salsa band, "CONJUNTO TIPICO CRIOLLO", Ray produced and arranged three albums. Ray was also a member of the BUDDHA LATIN JAZZ ALL STARS. RAY MARTINEZ has enjoyed a prolific musical career recording and performing with such artist as the "KING OF LATIN MUSIC" TITO PUENTE, "THE QUEEN OF SALSA" CELIA CRUZ, Latin Jazz great MONGO SANTAMARIA, RAY BARRETO, JOHNNY PACHECO, ISMAEL RIVERA TIPICA 73, AND PETE "EL CONDE" RODRIGUEZ among others. Having firmly established his reputation as an excellent musician, Ray was chosen to participate with PAUL SIMON in several musical recordings and also porformed in two world tours with DAVID BYRNE ex-leader of the TALKING HEADS. In addition, Ray served as special guest on DAVID BYRNE'S production of Brazilian artist MARGARETH MENEZES. Increasingly in demand, he has recorded with international star JUAN LUIS GUERRA AND 440, AFRICANDO from Africa, and the ultimate expression of Puerto Rican folklore in New York, LOS PLENEROS DE LA 21. Back by popular demand, Ray Martinez is producing a fourth production for CONJUNTO CRIOLLO. While maintaining his original style, Ray's music adds new dynamics enriching his already hard driving sound. RAY MARTINEZ, native of the Dominican Republic received his formal music education from the NATIONAL CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC in the Dominican Republic and upon moving to the U.S he continued his studies at LEHMAN COLLEGE of New York City.

 

RAY MARTINEZ SABOR CRIOLLO - ALTO NIVEL (2007)

Ray Martinez Leader, musical director, bass
Edwin Sanchez Piano
Richie Viruet Trumpets
Pete Nater Trumpets
Guido Gonzalez Trumpets
Ralph Irizarry Timbal
Ray Colon Bongo
Walter Reyes Congas
Renzo Padilla Lead vocals
Ray Viera, Ray Martinez, Jorge Maldonado Coros
Special Guests:

Oscar Hernandez Piano
Igor Atalita Piano
Luis Rodriguez Tres guitar
Ali Bello Violin
Fresco Rap
Wendy Martinez, Pedro Martinez, Nataly Lopez, Cassondra Handman, Julissa Lee Coros

 

 

review by Bruce Polin: RAY MARTINEZ SABOR CRIOLLO - ALTO NIVEL (2007)

recensione di Roberto Rabbi: RAY MARTINEZ SABOR CRIOLLO - ALTO NIVEL (2007)

 

La Diosa 5:10
Amor Pa' Que 4:33
Fantasia 5:14
Nuestra Musica 5:48
Ella 4:36
Sonero Y Clave 4:53
Mujer Perjura 6:57
Los Curiosos 4:54
Mambo Show 4:30
Vecinita 3:59

 

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photo by Allen Spatz