Luntana

AMG Review of Luntana

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

Master percussionist and vibraphonist Emil Richards has been on a countless number of studio sessions but has recorded relatively little through the years as a leader. On this highly appealing album Richards (mostly on marimba and vibes) performs an infectious variety of Latin-jazz. Most unusual about the set is that no horns are included. Richards is generally in the lead, utilizing either Michael Lang or Dave Mackay on piano, Al McKibbon or Chuck Domanico on bass, drummer Joe Porcaro and percussionists Luis Conte, Francisco Aguabella and Efrain Toro. Highlights include "Well I Didn't" (based on "Well You Needn't"), "Butter Jug Waltz" (featuring Richards on the percussive "rattle mallets"), Freddie Hubbard's "Little Sunflower" and "Night in Tunisia." This is a very likable set of high-quality Latin-jazz.