On his Zoho debut, New Yorker-guitarist Nelson Riveros reimagines Wes Montgomery’s pieces with a Latin aesthetic.
Riveros is an acclaimed guitarist and composer who embodies the very idea of cultural fusion.
Born in New York to Colombian parents, Riveros grew up learning about the music and cultures of the Americas. A few years ago, after playing a gig that involved performing songs from Montgomery's vaunted repertoire, Riveros had the idea of reimaging the legendary guitarist's music in a Latin American style.
“I started to hear all kind of rhythms, bass lines, and melodic variations in some of his tunes,” says Riveros. “The next day, I started writing arrangements, and this very project began to take shape.”
In making this terrific album, naturally Riveros wanted to collaborate with the very best musicians. And he did just that. He partnered with two-time Grammy nominee Hector Martignon (piano), Mark Walker (drums), Andy McKee (bass) and Jonathan Gomez (percussion).
Throughout the album, we can hear the band playing together as one, channelling the fluidness and virtuosity you will find on most if not all Montgomery recordings.
Writing for London Jazz News, Peter Jones, says: “Wes’ tunes are very often groove-based, lending themselves to a variety of rhythmic treatments… And it works beautifully.
“The band plays like a well-oiled machine throughout the album, but most notably on its version of Jingles, which is the sound of five virtuosos at the top of their game. Wes’ composition was never for cissies in the first place, with a highly syncopated intro and then a punishing upswing workout. Riveros adds an intro on top of the original intro, Martignon throws in a quick montuno, and when they get to the blowing section, they show how well they can swing, with exhilarating solos from piano, guitar and drums/percussion.”
In short, The Latin Side of Wes Montgomery is a triumphant tribute album.

TRACKS

Road Song
Tear It Down
Four On Six
Wes’ Tune
Nelson’s Groove
West Coast Blues
Jingles
Facing Wes
Leila