JAZZBO NOTES RECOMMENDED RECORDING
Rating: 
If you’re looking for highly innovative tunes and charts, Out Of This World isn’t going to do it for you. But if you’re up for solid Latin rhythms and improvising that sticks to your ribs, Out Of This World (released on Concord Records) should be just the ticket.
Much of the date is made up of standards, which are arranged competently and tastefully, if conservatively. The arrangements will get your feet moving without engaging your brain too much.
On the other hand, your intellect will be nourished by the bop-oriented improv, especially the rare opportunity to luxuriate in Papo Vasquez’ trombone solos. He’s one of the best bebop trombonists in the business and not recorded nearly enough.
Back in the 80s, I heard Papo with his group at the time perform live on an NYC radio station. That was the best Latin jazz I have ever heard and probably ever will hear. Papo himself was totally on fire and had the sweetest, silkiest sound you’ll ever hear out of a trombone. He’s not playing at that level here, but he’s damned good.
There’s also Charlie Sepulveda on trumpet. His style is a bit sloppy but exuberant, which is not as big a putdown as it seems. Mario Rivera plays some flute and bari sax, which is refreshing in a bop/Latin context.
Puente finishes off the date with a percussion jam. It’s always a treat to hear Puente solo on timbales.
Between the fabulous Latin grooves, the variety of instrumental colors, and the consistently competent improvisation, Out Of This World makes it almost impossible to sulk.