San Francisco Moods

Dive into the vibrant and eclectic sounds of San Francisco with Cal Tjader's "San Francisco Moods," a captivating album released on November 1, 2014, under the CoolNote label. This enchanting collection of tracks showcases Tjader's mastery of Latin jazz, exotica, cool jazz, and bossa nova, offering a unique blend of styles that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the city by the bay.

Spanning just over 41 minutes, "San Francisco Moods" features nine beautifully crafted compositions that transport you to the heart of San Francisco. From the upbeat and energetic "Running Out" to the sultry and sensual "Sigmund Stern Groove," each track tells a story and paints a vivid picture of the city's diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks. Standout tracks like "Coit Tower" and "Union Square" pay homage to the city's famous landmarks, while "The Last Luff" and "Viva Cepeda" add a touch of exotic flair.

Tjader's virtuosic vibraphone playing is the centerpiece of the album, complemented by a talented ensemble of musicians who bring each track to life. The album's diverse instrumentation and rhythmic complexity make it a standout in Tjader's discography, showcasing his versatility and innovation as a composer and performer.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Cal Tjader or a newcomer to his music, "San Francisco Moods" is sure to delight and inspire. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let the enchanting sounds of "San Francisco Moods" transport you to the vibrant streets and neighborhoods of San Francisco.

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.