El Watusi

Oh yeah. This gorgeous session is an exquisite blend of hard driving charanga, montuno, Latin jazz and Arabian influenced dance music. Colette Michaan, a first generation American of Egyptian descent who was born and raised in New York City, has provided us with an unexpected gem for the New Year. Think Orchestra Rytmo Africa-Cubana (Alfredo de la Fe, Nestor Torres) meets Africando meets Rabih Abou-Khalil.

Michaan, a gifted flautist, has performed with Hubert Laws, Richard Bona, and Youssou N’Dour. On Querencia, she is joined by an international ensemble of notables including percussionist Pedro Martinez, bassists Yunior Terry and Jorge Bringas, pianist Edgar Pantoja Aleman, tresero Aaron Halva, vocalist Jainardo Batista as well as sintir player and vocalist Hassan Hakmoun. A wonderful beginning for a new year, and very Highly Recommended.