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 Album Description: "Esperanza," bassist/vocalist/composer Esperanza Spalding's debut on Heads Up International, is set for worldwide release on May 20, 2008. Armed with uncanny instrumental chops, a siren voice that spans three languages, and composing and arranging skills that weave together the best elements of the old-school with the progressive, this 23-year-old has crafted a debut album that takes a completely fresh and refreshing approach to jazz by borrowing from the rich traditions of soul, pop, world music and so much more. Esperanza is joined in the studio by a crew of A-list session players, including flamenco guitar virtuoso Niño Josele, percussionist Jamey Haddad, drummer Horacio "El Negro" Hernández, saxophonist Donald Harrison and several other seasoned talents - all of whom collectively serve as further evidence of the kind of creative energy and magnetism that she radiates. Customer Reviews: Rating:  Date: 2008-07-08 Music For Music Lovers This is one of those recordings that comes along once in a long time. Although it is a latin jazz recording, it is so good that it transcends style. This is music made, simply, for people who love music. If you love music, of whatever kind, pick this up. If you don't love music, and wish to go on not loving music, avoid this recording. Rating:  Date: 2008-07-08 Brilliant ! A fresh take on jazz. A fresh face for the industry. Plus she's got the talent to become legendary. I highly recommend this cd for jazz affectionadoes and enthusiasts who like the contemperary sound with an updated mix of beats and ideas. Rating:  Date: 2008-07-07 Esperanza Guifted Jazz bassist Last month I saw Esperanza on the Letterman Show. That very next day I searched and purchased. The video interview offered through Amazon sealed the deal. I already planned to buy, but when the personallity in the conservation blossomed, I could not hardly wait to hear her skills. A very accomplished bassist at a young age, and an amazing voice that encourages inner smiles. I've shared with co-workers, however refuse to burn. I firmly believe an artist deserves to earn a living. My children think I'm old fashion, to that I answer, would you NOT like to be paid for your work. John Rating:  Date: 2008-07-05 A worthy first effort I loved some of the mellow cuts on this album but was not wild about some of the more avantgard ones. I really apperciate her vertuosity on the bass and will be keeping an ear out for her next album. Rating:  Date: 2008-07-02 The Des'ree Of Our Generation While Des'ree was a great contemporary urban artist, Esperanza takes that urban feel and applies it to a truly wonderful jazz album. Spicy, sexy, smooth, eclectic and relaxing. Esperanza Spalding is the contemporary jazz artist of our time. |