On March 10th, 2000, I had the distinct pleasure of listening to Harvie (Harvito) Swartz and Eye Contact perform at Trumpets in Montclair, NJ.
Celebrating their release on Bembe Records, Harvie Swartz is a "true master" of the millennium musical realm. His arrangements are tight and near seamless. They are rich and opaque, with a timeless sense of elegance and distinction.
Angela Posillico, Harvie Swartz and members of Eye Contact
If you do not have a copy of their CD, Havana Manãna, I highly suggest that you pick one up. This is Latin jazz at its best. Each track also features dance provoking solos. On guitar you have Bruce Arnold; on violin, the very talented and amazing Gregor Huebner; congas and percussion are Ed Uribe and Memo Acevedo; Trombone, Barry Olson; and on bass, the master himself and the "nerve center" of Havana Manãna, Harvie Swartz.
Harvie's musical roots are in the modern jazz styles of Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Duke Ellington and Charlie Mingus. And if you ever have the opportunity of seeing Eye Contact in concert, take a moment and close your eyes. You will also hear and visualize the sounds of the great Carlos Santana.
Havana Manãna will not only have you snapping your fingers and moving your feet to the Latin beat, but more importantly, you can relax with your headphones and enjoy the mesh of harmonic sounds and varied solos.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the owner and host of Trumpets, Enrico and his wife, for their gracious hospitality throughout the evening.
Trumpets is located at six Depot Square in Montclair, New Jersey. Open six days a week (closed on Tuesday),
Angela and Enrico & his wife
they feature the best in Latin jazz, and serve a superb Italian cuisine.
For further information on Trumpets, please contact Enrico at 973-744-2600.
So whether you are headed to hear the great sounds of Eye Contact or just want to enjoy an evening on the town with some special friends, then I highly recommend making Trumpets your net stop for an unforgettable evening of great music and superb cuisine.
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