Primo is indeed a primer in Latin music, with classics from the books of Machito, Tito Rodriguez, Joe Cuba, and others reinterpreted in an all-star setting. The esteem in which vibist Cal Tjader was held for his innovations in the idiom is obvious from the spirited writing and keyboard contributions of Charlie Palmieri, and the equally joyous writing and (on Mario Bauza's immortal "Tanga") timbales of Tito Puente. Tjader left many examples of his Latin jazz concepts; this collection, which now includes a bonus alternate version of "Bang Bang," is one of the most vital.

with Jose Merino, Louis Laurita, Jack Jeffers, Bobby Nelson, Charlie Palmieri, Bobby Rodriguez, Enrique Davila, Tito Puente, Ismael Quintana, Victor Aviles, Victor Velasquez, William Rodriguez, Luis Rodriguez