Ray Mantilla was one of the true conga giants duringthe 1950s, 60s and 70s recording hundreds of albumsessions and pioneering the use of unique combinationsof latin percussion instruments. Among his most famouscollaborations were with Charles Mingus, Herbie Mann andMax Roach. In 1977, Mantilla was selected by the great jazzambassador Dizzy Gillespie to accompany him to Cuba as thefirst US band to visit the island since the travel embargo of1962. Their joint concerts with Cuba‘s indigenous bands mademusical and political history. For Rebirth, Mantilla surroundedhimself with his long-time colleagues Edy Martinez, IvanRenta, Guido Gonzalez, Diego Lopez and others, once againproving that the music he made came from his heart as wellas from his lifetime of experience. Ray Mantilla was veryinsistent on titling this recording Rebirth. After a long illnessthe irrepressible Ray Mantilla passed away a few short monthsafter completing the sessions for this CD. The music containedhere is a fitting tribute to the man and the musician beloved byso many.
- 1. Moondance
- 2. Dat Dere
- 3. Hit the Road
- 4. Mia
- 5. Philly Mambo
- 6. Cumbia Jazz Fusion Experimental
- 7. Yuyo
- 8. Preciosa
- 9. Martinez
- 10. Rebirth Bata Rumba Experimental
