An exclusive vinyl single release with some of the best songs from JAZZANOVA's Cuban Jazz & Soul compilation. Following on from the success of such exotic compilations as their Paz e Futebol (SK089CD/LP) tribute to the greatest football nation of them all, Brazil, and the East European Jazz sampler, Focus Jazz - the Wewerka Archive 1966-1969 (SK108CD) - JAZZANOVA now bring you another very special collection: this time the subject is Cuban Jazz. This 12" includes 6 of the best tunes taken from the 18 track strong Cuban Jazz compilation.

The EP opens with the gloriously delayed song whistle glissandos which then breaks into a powerful horn intro to then give way to sun-ripened harmonies on De tu amorme enamore by YOTU EL Y ELLA. ORCHESTRA LOS VAN VAN are next up with the syncopated dance number Y que se sepa. Again it’s the rich instrumentation, violins, flutes and intricate percussion, combined with masterful musicianship, and of course, a feel for the groove that really makes this music so special. QUINTETO INSTRUMENTAL DE MUSICA MODERNA bring side A of this hot 12" to a close with Gandinga, Mondongo y Sandunga - timbales and congas all ablaze, but it is better to burn out than fade away, as they say.

TEMA 4, who are represented with two songs on the CD compilation, are featured on the 12". Gorgeous harmonies, a slightly out of tune guitar and some interesting changes characterise their short but sweet song Yayabo. Next up on side 2 is EMILIANO SALVADOR. He is one of those artists admired by all musicians and specially those playing the piano; he is what American Jazz men call a “pianist`s pianist“. SALVADOR has turned into a legend, not only among Cubans but also within the Afro-Caribbean and Latin Jazz enthusiasts. In 1978, EMILIANO recorded his first LP Nueva Visión, from which the title track comes, and it’s precisely this work that made him known worldwide. SALVADOR is also heard tinkling the ivories in his unmistakable style on the delightful number Son en 7/4; only a musician of this calibre names his song after the time signature! Last but by no means least on this fabulous EP are LA 440 with their slowly grooving funk number, Y No Me Ire - watch out, tune is a real heartbreaker, so a perfect closing number.
This EP is really something for connoisseurs of vinyl and the exquisite Cuban sound. Just as the CD is so packed full with greats from the Cuban scene that it functions as the perfect reference for those who really want to know where it’s at in Cuban Jazz, the 12" is also something very special as all these tracks are very hard to find on vinyl. JAZZANOVA's Cuban Jazz compilation again shows what an open-minded taste in music they have. This selection sees JAZZANOVA going even further in the direction of world music - an under explored path that they do well bring to today’s ears. Cuban Jazz music is gloriously happy music that will fill your life with sunshine. Some of the best songs in the genre Cuban Jazz are gathered together here so it will be sure to please those already familiar with Cuban music as well as newcomers to the scene who want to find out more.