Alí Bello
In the Key of Latin Jazz
Alí Bello is a renowned violinst from Venezuela who has been providing audiences with inspiring music for decades. With violin experience going back to his childhood, Alí continues to amaze listeners with the variety of styles he plays, having two albums (Inheritance and Connection Caracas) that were selected for "Top 50 Jazz CDs" by JazzTimes Magazine. Alí's newest album, Alí Bello & The Charanga Syndicate, is one of his most creative efforts yet.
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Rita Hargrave and Wayne Wallace
In the Key of Latin Jazz
WUCF’s July artists for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ are Rita Hargrave and Wayne Wallace. Dr. Rita Hargrave is a pioneering producer, filmmaker, and psychiatrist whose creative work uplifts underrepresented voices, especially black and Afro-Latinx women. Wayne Wallace is a five-time Grammy-nominated trombonist, composer, arranger, and producer whose imprint on the Latin jazz and salsa scenes—particularly in the Bay Area—is profound. Together, they’ve created 'Salsa de la Bahia Vol. 3: Renegade Queens', an album that honors the legacy—and the future—of women in salsa.
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Zaccai Curtis
In the Key of Latin Jazz
WUCF’s June artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Zaccai Curtis. This illustrious pianist is coming off of a Grammy win for his record “Cubop Lives!” His collaborative work spans generations - playing with his brother Luques and his mentor, Eddie Palmieri and many others. We get into what its like working with his brother, why they started their own record label together, and what’s to come for Curtis’ latest project - “Sonoluminescence.” It’s easy to see why this artist is one of the most anticipated jazz artists of today.
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Jose Elias
In the Key of Latin Jazz
WUCF’s May artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Jose Elias – the co-founder of Cortadito, guitarist and tres player. The group focuses on performing one of the earliest styles of Cuban country music. Named the best Latin act by the Miami New Times in 2019 – they continue to blend the past and the present in new and exciting ways. You can hear their latest work in ‘The Guajiro Triangle’ on the Afro Roots recording label.
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Tomás Martín López
In the Key of Latin Jazz
WUCF’s April artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Tomás Martín López. Percussionist from Brooklyn who has worked with Louie Ramirez, Ray de la Paz, Billy Cobham and Oscar Hernandez. They say ‘the best things come in threes’ and that is the case with “Right Here” - Lopez’s latest record. Whether he’s traveling globally to spread his love for the salsa scene or staying state side and collaborating with his brother – he is always attuned to the music.
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Renee Rosnes
In the Key of Latin Jazz
WUCF’s March artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Renee Rosnes. Pianist and composer from Canada who has had an astonishing four decade career. With a resume that includes Wayne Shorter band, Ron Carter Foursight Quartet, Blue Note Records’ Out of the Blue and Carnegie Hall Jazz Orchestra...she’s a force to be reckoned with. Her ability to hear every single note is what Bill Charlap calls ‘perfect hearing’. Her newest record “Crossing Paths” proves how extraordinary she can be not only as a composer but as an arranger.
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Joyce Moreno
In the Key of Latin Jazz
WUCF’s February artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Joyce Moreno. Described by Jobim as “one of the best singers of all time” - this Brazilian singer songwriter and guitarist is a famous trailblazer. During a time of fear, control and possession – she proudly spoke her truth. Feminina catapulted her media exposure and is loved by so many. Outside of Brazil, her work has been recorded by the likes of Annie Lennox, The Black-Eyed Peas, Gerry Mulligan and more. With forty-six albums, four Latin Grammy nominations and over four hundred songs...Moreno is an unstoppable force.
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Dred Scott
In the Key of Latin Jazz
WUCF’s January artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Dred Scott - a multi-instrumentalist who has cut his teeth on both coasts. Referred to as the ‘maestro of mayhem’, his restless and frenetic energy is intertwined with his passion. He’s collaborated with Liza Minnelli, composed for the film “Home” - featuring Woody Allen, Rosie Perez, Liam Neeson and more – recorded eleven albums as a leader and performed on over fifty others. His latest work is a testament to the enduring power of Latin jazz and an exploration of his love for the genre. It is vibrant, playful and rich...
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Miguel Zenón
In the Key of Latin Jazz
WUCF’s December artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Miguel Zenón. He is a prolific saxophonist and composer who took home the Grammy for Best Latin Jazz Album this year and is a recipient of the Guggenheim and McArthur fellowships. Hailing from Puerto Rico, he now resides in New York City. He is a founding member of the San Francisco Jazz Collective and his latest record focuses on the magic of the Golden City.
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Kemuel Roig
In the Key of Latin Jazz
WUCF’s November artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Kemuel Roig. Born in Cuba and now a resident of Miami - he has earned high praise as a first call pianist. He toured with Arturo Sandoval for eight years, Chucho Valdes calls him "Superman" and his debut record as a leader "Genesis" is a personal reflection of his relocation. It features Randy Brecker, Chris Potter, Ed Calle, Alain Perez, Julio Padron, Joel Hernandez, Milton Sesenton and Mercy Brass.
info_outlineWUCF’s March artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Renee Rosnes. Pianist and composer from Canada who has had an astonishing four decade career. With a resume that includes Wayne Shorter band, Ron Carter Foursight Quartet, Blue Note Records’ Out of the Blue and Carnegie Hall Jazz Orchestra...she’s a force to be reckoned with. Her ability to hear every single note is what Bill Charlap calls ‘perfect hearing’. Her newest record “Crossing Paths” proves how extraordinary she can be not only as a composer but as an arranger.