Manhattan Latin captures Dave Pike in flux between the
straight-ahead approach of his earlier sessions and the psychedelic pop-jazz of
his efforts for MPS: a playful yet methodical immersion into pure, sunkissed
groove, its artful assimilation of global rhythms and textures anticipates the
direction of Pike's most memorable work. Recorded with an impressive lineup
including flautist Hubert Laws, drummer Willie Bobo and then-unknown pianist
Chick Corea, the album largely eschews familiar Latin standards in favor of
Pike originals. What's impressive is that the end result seems completely
organic, living up to the album's title in terms of both sophistication and
flavor. Phenomenal cover, too.
By Jason Ankenyhttp://www.allmusic.com/album/manhattan-latin-mw0000738396
