Cadence Trio: Yatrata

Yatrata (Clavebop) is a vivacious, well-sculpted effort from the Cadence Trio, featuring three Brazilian contenders: pianist Helio Alves, electric bassist Itaiguara and drummer Portinho. The session opens with the Tania Maria-penned title track, emphasizing heavy chops over a blues-based form. After a perky reading of Edu Lobo’s bossa “Aleluia,” Randy Brecker, Robin Eubanks and guitarist Romero Lubambo drop in to add ensemble color and brief but effective solos on Portinho’s infectious “In Motion.” The horn players return for a calm look at Noel Rosa’s “Feitio de Oracao” and a parting blowout over McCoy Tyner’s “Effendi.” Lubambo, the American jazz scene’s leading nylon-string specialist, turns in memorable performances on Lena Pesce’s “Corruira Saltitante” (a wonderfully sparse chorinho) and Ze do Norte’s uptempo “Mulher Rendeira.” Alves offers a deep and dark trio reading of the Lobo ballad “Cancao do Amanhecer” and shines on three varied originals. If you’re spending freely, Yatrata is a worthy companion to Alves’ lastest solo outing on Reservoir, Portrait in Black and White.

Originally Published December 1, 2004