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2LP
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JMAN 081LP
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Double LP version in deluxe double-gatefold sleeve. Twenty-six red-hot, skin-slappin', bongo-bashin' Latin jazz 'n' mambo bangers! The phrase "living legend" is undoubtedly overused, but there can be few people more deserving of such an accolade than Jack Costanzo. Born on September 24, 1919, Costanzo is arguably the most significant percussionist of the modern era. Playing with many key orchestras, leading his own band, appearing in numerous TV shows and films, and tutoring bongo playing to the stars, more than any other figure Jack Costanzo brought percussion, specifically Latin percussion and his trademark bongos, to widespread attention. But he wasn't merely a popularist; he was revered by his peers and critics alike for his natural ability, invention, and, perhaps most importantly, his sheer versatility. He became known as "Mr. Bongo" (first coined by jazz critic Leonard Feather), and the tag could hardly be more appropriate. Latin music and its influence in general is often criminally overlooked in music history, but as a white Italian American who rose to prominence playing Latin music at the height of the mambo craze of the 1950s, Jack Costanzo has probably been even more neglected. This 26-track retrospective seeks to give him the special treatment his spectacular career deserves. Showcasing many of the musical highlights of his mid-'50s peak and featuring extensive liner notes based on new interviews with Costanzo himself, Mr. Bongo serves as a perfect introduction to the many who may not yet be aware of Jack Costanzo, and provides those who are already fans with the ultimate collection of his work. All tracks digitally restored from original sources.
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CD
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JMAN 081CD
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Twenty-six red-hot, skin-slappin', bongo-bashin' Latin jazz 'n' mambo bangers! The phrase "living legend" is undoubtedly overused, but there can be few people more deserving of such an accolade than Jack Costanzo. Born on September 24, 1919, Costanzo is arguably the most significant percussionist of the modern era. Playing with many key orchestras, leading his own band, appearing in numerous TV shows and films, and tutoring bongo playing to the stars, more than any other figure Jack Costanzo brought percussion, specifically Latin percussion and his trademark bongos, to widespread attention. But he wasn't merely a popularist; he was revered by his peers and critics alike for his natural ability, invention, and, perhaps most importantly, his sheer versatility. He became known as "Mr. Bongo" (first coined by jazz critic Leonard Feather), and the tag could hardly be more appropriate. Latin music and its influence in general is often criminally overlooked in music history, but as a white Italian American who rose to prominence playing Latin music at the height of the mambo craze of the 1950s, Jack Costanzo has probably been even more neglected. This 26-track retrospective seeks to give him the special treatment his spectacular career deserves. Showcasing many of the musical highlights of his mid-'50s peak and featuring extensive liner notes based on new interviews with Costanzo himself, Mr. Bongo serves as a perfect introduction to the many who may not yet be aware of Jack Costanzo, and provides those who are already fans with the ultimate collection of his work. All tracks digitally restored from original sources. Includes 16-page color booklet containing pictures and notes provided personally by Jack Costanzo himself.
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LP
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OUT 5009LP
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"Originally released in 1958 on the Liberty label -- and featuring a legendarily lascivious album cover -- Latin Fever is one of Jack Costanzo's very first records as a leader, after years as an in-demand sideman for the likes of Nat King Cole and Stan Kenton. Don't let that somewhat soft pedigree fool you, though, this LP is end to end burners full of fiery bongos and stereo trickery. An absolutely incredible album that helped set off the Latin craze in the USA, reissued on 180 gram LP by So Far Out."
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OUT 5008LP
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"After popularizing the bongo drum in a jazz setting with Stan Kenton's orchestra of the late '40s, as well as a stint in Nat King Cole's group, 'Mr. Bongo,' Jack Costanzo, set out on his own, releasing his debut solo record in 1956 on the Zephyr label. As the title implies, the Chicago born bongo master is joined by a large orchestra that includes a boatload of trumpets in a Latin jazz/exotica setting. Cinematic in scope, some might call this 'crime' jazz, with a distinct Latin flavor. Whatever you call it, be prepared to dance. Mr. Bongo Has Brass is lovingly reissued here on 180 gram LP by the fine folks at So Far Out."
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