Introducing Ruben Gonzalez

Pianist Gonzalez first appeared on disc in 1943 with Cuban (i)son(ui) innovator Arsenio Rodriguez. Since then, he?s been a sideman on countless sessions. Last year, he came out of retirement to play on World Circuit?s Afro-Cuban All Stars album, the label also inviting him to make this belated solo debut. Recorded live in Havana?s famed Egrem studios, Gonzalez is right at the front of the mix, cushioned by a sensitive ensemble, with only the occasional trumpet expostulation frightening the listener out of acushioned posture. The stately procession has a nostalgic sophistication, adopting a graceful swaying motion. Gonzalez uses unpredictable melodic structures, the pert fingerings given a very deliberate phrasing, fresh with constant invention.