Screw afternoon-pick-me-ups like Earl Grey and Rockstar. You just need some more Poncho Sanchez in your life.
Arguably, the Laredo, Texas-born conguero may be the best Latin Jazz musician out there today. Un-arguably, Sanchez and his ensemble inject head-nodding and feet-shuffling energies into the spheres (especially in a live context) that will keep you from being a tired and whiny bitch. As far as recorded documents, the one to pick up is his thus-far magnum opus Latin Spirits (2000). The Grammy-winning album showcases Sanchez who picked up some of his world-class chops while gigging with the late Cal Tjader tackling party blues, salsa, and Calypso jive, as well as Latin grooves with accomplished jazz pianist Chick Corea.
Fri., Sept. 24, 8 p.m., 2010