Tito Puente - Mambo Diablo (LP)

Although he was never inactive, the 1980s found Tito Puente in a bit of a renaissance. His exciting Afro-Cuban jazz band had found a home on the Concord Picante label, and his music was increasing in popularity again.

This particular album has a stronger than usual repertoire, including “Take Five,” “Lush Life” (done as Latin jazz), “Pick Yourself Up” and “Lullaby of Birdland”; the latter song has its composer George Shearing guesting on piano. Puente wrote half of the arrangements, contributed some excellent playing on timbales and vibes, and is heard heading a spirited three-horn, three-percussion octet. Tito’s style of Jazz at its best.