R&B Latino

Amazon.co.uk Alex Wilson won a newcomer prize at last year's BBC Jazz Awards and continues to progress in his career at an impressive rate. R&B Latino positions him even closer to the mainstream, with the opening track, "Tell Me How It Feels", being indistinguishable from the type of female-led R&B one usually hears these days on Top of the Pops. The vocals are supplied by Maryanne Morgan, Mary Pearce, Noel Mckoy and Lauren Dalrymple, the last-named having been on Wilson's previous album. Wilson is not pretending for a moment that this is a jazz record, so it would be unfair to look for jazz in it. A parallel could be found in the old R&B funk of Tom Browne in the late 70s, although Browne tended to come up with melodies rather than ubiquitous vocal shapes. The rhythmic mix is powerful and drives on the top line successfully. The record would sound good on a dance floor and is probably already blaring out at a club near you. Contrary to the usual advice, you could try this at home. --Keith Shadwick Product description In the past attempts at R & B Latin meant Salsa artists covering an old song or R &B producers tagging a Latin lick on their work. Co-produced with Frank Tontoh - musical director to Craig David - this album transcends those efforts, successfully weaving together the two musical genres into something authentic, original and vital. Alex was named 'Rising Star' at the prestigious BBC Jazz Awards in 2001 and headlines major festivals with his captivating seven-piece band. 'Irresistible danceable' - is how the The Times describes Alex live show. The Observer also witnessing 'a glorious energetic and exciting set.'