Victor Rendón and The Bronx Conexión Latin Jazz Big Band are thrilled to announce their latest album, “Funky Frijoles.” Like their highly praised previous albums “True Flight” and “Mambo Boulevard,” “Funky Frijoles” showcases the band’s exceptional musicianship, varied repertoire, and percussive grooves and takes their artistry to new heights.
The title track acknowledges the tune’s moving lines, funk groove, and Rendon’s “Tex-Mex” roots. “Basta” is an upbeat mambo that showcases Rendón on the timbales, performing in the late, great Tito Puente style.
“Malagueña Salerosa” (alternately known as “La Malagueña”) is a famous Mexican Son Huasteco, influenced by Mexico’s Spanish and indigenous cultures. “Black Water” is a 6/8 Afro-Cuban bembe with a mid-tempo shuffle.
At the same time, “Morningside,” originally a calypso, showcases Xavier Cugat’s classic signature “mambo” sound. Other highlights include “The Moment,” a luscious ballad (bolero), and “Bomba Dreams,” a sica from the Puerto Rican genre.
The Bronx Conexión Latin Jazz Big Band was founded in 2012 by Victor Rendón. It is modeled after the standard big-band format and inspired by the orchestras of Tito Puente, Tito Rodríguez, Machito, and Mario Bauza. Initially, the band performed stock charts.
However, it turned a corner when Rendón, pianist Joe Mannozzi, and trombonist Rick Faulkner decided to add new, original compositions to its songbook. Since its inception, The Bronx Conexión Latin Jazz Big Band has been devoted to pleasing its audience.
Despite the modern jazz harmonies and sophisticated arrangements, the band strives to make the music accessible to listeners and dancers.
“The aim is for people to enjoy the rhythms and melodies, feel the music in their bones, and dance. If the listener can forget their daily concerns while listening to the music, “says Rendón, “my job as an artist is done.”
The Bronx Conexión’s impressive discography rivals top-tier big bands and deserves wider recognition.
“Funky Frijoles” will be available on all digital platforms