Mais Que Tudo: Live at Kerry Hall 1995

5-STARS Brazilian master pianist, composer, arranger Jovino Santos Neto is a three-time Latin Grammy nominee. Currently based in Seattle, Wa., he taught piano and composition at Cornish College of the Arts for 26 years. He's also been closely affiliated with Brazilian master Hermeto Pascoal and was an integral part of Pascoal's group from 1977 to 1992. On this album, track 5 "Candango / Haja Juntas" are Pascoal compositions. The remaining six tracks are Jovino Santos Neto's originals that emphasize his creative personal style with boundless energy, deft harmony, inspired improvisation, lyrical melodies and cohesive ensemble playing. Standouts are Metamorph, Mais Que Tudo, Caranavalha, Chorelético, Hoping For the Day, and Happy Birthday Ariel! The pianist is joined by Hans Teuber (flute, saxophones), Chuck Deardorf (bass) and Mark Ivester (drums), fellow faculty members who clearly enjoyed the overall groove, as well as the audience, at this live 1995 concert. Each band member gets plenty of opportunity for unrestrained, joyful, clarion and mesmerizing music-making during this exhilarating evening.