ANDY NEVALA

EL RUMBON (THE PARTY)

Zoho Records

Andy Nevala, piano; Andy Eulau, bass; Frankie Quiñones & Ireland Faughn, percussionists; Emrah Kotan, drums; Neff Irizarry, guitar; Carlos Averhoff Jr., tenor saxophone.

Pianist Andy Nevala and his group open with a lovely Latin arrangement of the familiar Stevie Wonder tune, “Isn’t She Lovely.”  The arrangements on this album are all Afro-Cuban based.  Stevie’s tune is played in 6/8 time.  Across these ten tracks, Nevala endeavors to fuel “The Party” (El Rumbon) album with Latin energy and Cuban/African rhythms.

Track #3 uses percussion to capture my attention.  It’s the title tune and Nevala’s piano dances atop the percussion of Frankie Quiñones and the drums of Emrah Kotan. Midway through the arrangement, the drummer and percussionist are given space to shine and strut their stuff. You will hear their brilliance laced with intricate montuno patterns.

Next, they tackle a Bennie Maupin, Herbie Hancock composition called “Butterfly.”  I like their Afro-Cuban swing arrangement.  They also cover a Sting tune and on Thelonious Monk’s “Bemsha Swing” composition, they add Carlos Averhoff Jr., on tenor saxophone.  His solo improvisation is impressive.

Nevala takes the very famous “A Night in Tunisia” and reimagines it with a 7/4 songo feel, bringing a fresh rhythmic complexity to the Dizzy Gillespie standard.  The John Coltrane composition called “Countdown” is totally rejuvenated with a 5/4 beat.  Their energetic, fast arrangement of this Coltrane classic certainly must cause sparks to fly on the bandstand.

For Andy Nevala, this album is more than just playing music.  It’s about honoring a tradition.

“I’ve been lucky to learn from some of the best musicians in the world.  Now, my job is to pass that knowledge on, whether through my playing, my teaching or my recordings,” Nevala writes in his liner notes.

If you love Latin jazz, you will enjoy every moment of this music arranged by band leader and Atlanta based pianist, Andy Nevala.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

Buy Us a Cup of Coffee!

Join the movement in supporting Making a Scene, the premier independent resource for both emerging musicians and the dedicated fans who champion them.

We showcase this vibrant community that celebrates the raw talent and creative spirit driving the music industry forward. From insightful articles and in-depth interviews to exclusive content and insider tips, Making a Scene empowers artists to thrive and fans to discover their next favorite sound.

Together, let’s amplify the voices of independent musicians and forge unforgettable connections through the power of music

You can donate directly through Paypal!

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Order the New Book From Making a Scene

Breaking Chains – Navigating the Decentralized Music Industry

Breaking Chains is a groundbreaking guide for independent musicians ready to take control of their careers in the rapidly evolving world of decentralized music. From blockchain-powered royalties to NFTs, DAOs, and smart contracts, this book breaks down complex Web3 concepts into practical strategies that help artists earn more, connect directly with fans, and retain creative freedom. With real-world examples, platform recommendations, and step-by-step guidance, it empowers musicians to bypass traditional gatekeepers and build sustainable careers on their own terms.

More than just a tech manual, Breaking Chains explores the bigger picture—how decentralization can rebuild the music industry’s middle class, strengthen local economies, and transform fans into stakeholders in an artist’s journey. Whether you’re an emerging musician, a veteran indie artist, or a curious fan of the next music revolution, this book is your roadmap to the future of fair, transparent, and community-driven music.

Get your Limited Edition Signed and Numbered (Only 50 copies Available)  Free Shipping Included