Focus Point

• Artist: Luis Perdomo
• Rating:
• Release Date: February 22, 2005
• Genre: Jazz

Review

Luis Perdomo is rapidly becoming one of New York's premier pianists, not only inside of Latin circles but also in the larger jazz world. Regularly recording with the young lions of Latin jazz, including up and comers like Dafnis Prieto, Yosvany Terry, John Benitez, Brian Lynch and Ravi Coltrane, as well as with some more proven talents like Ray Barretto and Ralph Irizarry has honed Perdomo's voice into one of the most distinct on the scene. Known for his ability to both pound out rock-solid clave-inspired grooves, and to push harmony and melody into the outer stratosphere, Perdomo is an amazingly versatile talent, a musician's musician. His 2005 solo debut Focus Point comes not a moment too soon, as many Latin and progressive jazz enthusiasts have been waiting and watching for his first outing as bandleader. With a mixed lineup of well-known names and virtual first-timers, Focus Point is a fresh creative splash in a genre that is becoming increasingly academic and predictable. Ravi Coltrane, Robert Quintero and Miguel Zenón make up the seasoned half of the group, complemented by the fresh blood of rhythm section players Ralph Peterson, Jr. and Ugonna Okegwo. The compositions are daring, and the playing is inspired. Though perhaps not the cleanest record, or the most widely palatable, Perdomo's first effort from the helm is nothing if not bold. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez, All Music Guide

Tracks

Track Title	Composers	Performers	Time
You Know I Know	Luis Perdomo	Luis Perdomo	(5:26)
Fragments	Luis Perdomo	Luis Perdomo	(:35)
Book of Life	Luis Perdomo	Luis Perdomo	(6:02)
Procession	Luis Perdomo	Luis Perdomo	(4:19)
San Millan	Luis Perdomo	Luis Perdomo	(4:44)
The Stranger	Luis Perdomo	Luis Perdomo	(7:14)
Spirit Strong, Pt. 1	Miriam Sullivan	Luis Perdomo	(1:54)
Spirit Song, Pt. 2	Miriam Sullivan	Luis Perdomo	(7:39)
Dreams		Luis Perdomo	(5:31)
Breakdown	Luis Perdomo	Luis Perdomo	(6:38)
Impromptu	Luis Perdomo	Luis Perdomo	(1:02)

Credits

Luis Perdomo (Producer), Robert Quintero (Bata), Luis Perdomo (Mixing), Steve Vavagiakis (Mastering), Luis Perdomo (Arranger), Ravi Coltrane (Sax (Tenor)), Ravi Coltrane (Executive Producer), Ravi Coltrane (Mixing), Robert Quintero (Percussion), Luis Perdomo (Audio Production), Ralph Peterson, Jr. (Drums), Miguel Zenón (Sax (Alto)), Ugonna Okegwo (Bass), Darlene DeVita (Photography), Carlo DeRosa (Bass), Peter Karl (Audio Engineer), Peter Karl (Engineer), Max King (Sax (Tenor)), Luis Perdomo (Piano)