Ilé

Pianist Omar Sosa has always been deeply influenced by the music of his Cuban homeland and growing up in Camagüey. On Ile, Sosa, his quartet, and several guests make the connection particularly direct and personal using a hybrid of African polyrhythm, various Cuban folk styles, and modern touches from his adopted homeland in the U.S. (including blues, R&B, and hip-hop). While the songs are (as usual) energetic, creative, and tightly constructed, there are several “Momento” pieces that are poignant musical improvisations between Sosa, master percussionist Eliadio Terry, and saxophonist Yosvany Terry.