ProJazz.net

In a Latin Bag is an album by American jazz vibraphonist Cal Tjader featuring performances recorded in 1961 and released on the Verve label.

“Cal Tjader recorded prolifically for Verve during the first half of the 1960s, though this is one of his lesser-known dates. These 1961 sessions with Paul Horn on flute, pianist Lonnie Hewitt, bassist Al McKibbon, plus Latin percussionists Johnny Rae, Wilfredo Vincente and Armando Peraza are a bit of a mixed bag. Two low-key pieces open each side of the disc, the first with a subdued treatment of “Ben Hur (Love Theme)” with Hewitt switching to clavietta (which sounds similar to a harmonica) and Tjader taking over the piano. The leader’s more interesting “Triste,” which is highlighted by Horn’s warm solo, sounds as if it is played on an alto flute. The remainder of the disc explores standards like “On Green Dolphin Street,” classic jazz (“Misty”) and entertaining originals by several members of the group. While this long unavailable Verve LP falls short of Cal Tjader’s best work, it is well worth snapping up if found.” – Ken Dryden/AllMusic.

Track listing:
“Ben-Hur” (Miklós Rózsa) – 2:25
“Green Dolphin Street” (Bronisław Kaper, Ned Washington) – 5:30
“Pauneto´s Point” (Cal Tjader) – 3:04
“Speak Low” (Kurt Weill, Ogden Nash) – 2:57
“Triste” (Cal Tjader) – 4:01
“Misty” (Erroll Garner) – 2:48
“Mambo in Miami” (Armando Peraza) – 2:40
“Ecstasy” (Paul Horn) – 2:30
“Half and Half” (Horn) – 4:01

Personnel:
Cal Tjader – vibraphone, piano
Paul Horn – flute, alto saxophone
Lonnie Hewitt – piano
Al McKibbon – bass
Johnny Rae – drums
Wilfredo Vicente – congas
Armando Peraza – bongos

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Released: November 1961
Recorded: August 28–29, 1961
Studio Los Angeles, CA
Length: 32:31
Label: Verve V/V6 8419
Producer: Creed Taylor