Album Review: Passion from Raquel Cepeda

Album:  Passion
Artist:  Raquel Cepeda
Label:  Raquel Cepeda Music LLC
Website:  www.raquelcepedamusic.com

Contemporary arrangements fuse classic American swing with Afro-Cuban accoutrements and Afro-Brazilian rhythms for a lively recording presented by vocalist-producer Raquel Cepeda on her latest release Passion.  The recording features re-imaginings of classic jazz standards like Duke Ellington's "Carvan" and "It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing," alongside contemporary tunes like Cepeda's original works "From Afar" and  "Luz De Luna."  Both a party pleaser and conducive to intimate settings, Cepeda's recording finds it way into every lifestyle.

The bobbing pulse of the keys and shimmying strut of the percussive beats form a conga-line style parade along "Berimbau," radiating a sunny ambience as Cepeda's vocals jangle a samba swivel, enhancing the festive mood.  Her vocals modulate to a tender purr in the intimate glow of "From Afar," and blaze a sultry sizzle along "Mil Congojas," transitioning to a burlesque swagger in "It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing."  The tango rhythm of "Little Gem" is laced in accordion-like trimmings as Barry Sames's keys intensify the dramatic phrasing, and segue into a gentle glimmer along "Your Return."

Consisting of tracks sung in both English and Spanish, Cepeda's vocals percolate a sophisticated style.  Her suave phrasing and sultry voicing make her a vocalist of distinction.  Produced by Cepeda as well, the recording is a complete representation of her artistry.

Musicians:
Raquel Cepeda - vocals
Barry Sames - piano
Thomas Helton - double bass
Adriano Santoson drums and Cassio Duarte - percussion
Orlando Fuentes - drums
Ernesto Vega - sax and flute
Omar Martinez - trumpet
Special guest appearances by Argentinean Grammy winner Hector del Curto on bandoneon, Venezuelan cuatro player Jorge Glem, Venezuelan Marlon Simon on drums and percussion, and American singer David Caceres on backup vocals