Have You Met Miss Jones

Dive into the vibrant world of Cal Tjader with "Have You Met Miss Jones," a captivating album that showcases the versatility and brilliance of this legendary Latin jazz vibraphonist. Released on January 1, 2020, by All About Music, this album is a delightful blend of genres, including Latin jazz, exotica, cool jazz, jazz, Brazilian jazz, and bossa nova, all seamlessly woven into a 41-minute musical journey.

The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Kenny Drew Jr. on piano, Cole Hazlitt on vibraphone, Joe Porter on bass, and Hector Mayoral on bongo, cowbell, chekere, and vocals. This ensemble brings a rich, dynamic sound that highlights Tjader's mastery of the vibraphone and his ability to fuse various musical styles into a cohesive and enchanting experience.

"Have You Met Miss Jones" opens with the enchanting "Skyline Waltz," setting the tone for a collection that includes both classic standards and lesser-known gems. Standout tracks like "Fascinating Rhythm," "The Lady Is a Tramp," and "Yesterdays" showcase Tjader's interpretive skills, while "Guarachi Guaro" and "Mambo Macumba" infuse the album with a lively Latin flavor. The album also features beautiful renditions of "East of the Sun (West of the Moon)" and "For Heaven's Sake," demonstrating Tjader's versatility and musical depth.

This album is a testament to Cal Tjader's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the world of jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, "Have You Met Miss Jones" offers a timeless collection of songs that will captivate and inspire.

Cal Tjader, a pioneer of Latin jazz, was a vibraphonist and percussionist renowned for his distinctive sound and innovative fusion of jazz and Latin rhythms. Born in St. Louis in 1925, Tjader's career spanned over three decades, during which he explored various jazz idioms, from bebop to Afro-Cuban rhythms, and collaborated with legendary musicians like Dave Brubeck and George Shearing. His prolific discography, featuring hits like "Soul Sauce" and "Guarachi Guara," showcases his mastery of the vibraphone and his ability to blend cultural influences seamlessly. Tjader's contributions to Latin jazz earned him a Grammy Award in 1980, cementing his status as one of the most successful non-Latino Latin musicians in history. His music continues to inspire, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that transport listeners to the vibrant streets of Latin America and the cool jazz clubs of the 1950s and 60s.