Guitarist and composer Ray Obiedo release "Twist" in Latin Jazz at Yoshi, Oakland June 9, 2024

 

TWIST

Musicians: Ray Obiedo (guitar, composer); Chloe Jean, Sheila E, Lilan Kane, Leah Tysse, Michelle Hawkins, Sandy Cressman (vocal); Bob Mintzer (sax); Norbert Atachel (sax, flute); Jeff Cressman (trombone); Peter Horvath, David K. Mathews (keyboard); Marc van Wageningen (bass); Phil Hawkins, David Garibaldi (drums); Andy Narell, Jeff Narell (steel pan); Pete Escovedo, Peter Michael Escovedo, Karl Perazzo (percussion) 

Tracks List: Twist; Curacao; The First Thing; All Day Music; Alquezar; Enotea; Zulaya; Lucky Break

With a twist of Latin and contemporary jazz flavors, Ray Obiedo puts his signature spin on the guitar. The Oakland-based artist's latest album, "Twist" on Rhythmus Records, marks his 11th release. Obiedo brings together his talent for composing originals with his flair for reimagining classics like War’s “All Day Music” which features vocalist Chloé Jean. Obiedo's star-studded musical journey shines bright on his latest project, enlisting renowned artists like Yellowjackets' Bob Mintzer, percussion powerhouses Pete Escovedo and Peter Michael Escovedo. This new album features smooth vocals from Sheila E, Lilan Kane, Leah Tysse, Michelle Hawkins and Sandy Cressman, and dynamic instrumentalists like sax and flute player Norbert Stachel, trombonist Jeff Cressman, keyboardist Peter Horvath, and drummer Phil Hawkins. This Latin Jazz collection also brings together musical masters for an energetic collaboration. Steel pan virtuosos Andy Narell and his brother Jeff Narell lend their iconic sound. Tower of Power’s acclaimed drummer David Garibaldi and bassist Marc van Wageningen add their signature funk grooves. Rounding out the lineup are Santana keyboardist David K. Mathews and percussionist Karl Perazzo, who infuse their trademark Latin flair. Obiedo assembles a masterful musical mosaic overflowing with talent. This A-list ensemble illuminates Obiedo's compositions, showcasing his prowess for bringing together diverse artists to create musical magic. With 5 previous acclaimed albums on Windham Hill Jazz and 4 more on his own Oakland-based Rhythmus Records, the West Coast guitarist brews a rhythmic, energetic soundscape on "Twist" that reveals his passion for the diverse flavors of his Bay Area home.

Smooth jazz guitarist Ray Obiedo was born and raised in Richmond, California, where as a child he frequently traveled to nearby San Francisco to take in free concerts by the likes of the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Cream; still, he did not pick up the guitar until age 17, also drawing considerable influence from acts including James Brown, Miles Davis, and Earth, Wind & Fire. At the outset of his career, Obiedo regularly shifted between jazz and R&B, working with a variety of artists including Herbie Hancock, Julian Priester, and Sheila E.; he also led the fusion unit Kick as well as the rock outfit Rhythmus 21. After signing to Windham Hill, Obiedo made his solo debut with 1989's Perfect Crime, followed two years later by Iguana; with 1993's Sticks and Stones, he reached the Top Ten on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz charts. After 1995's African-influenced Zulaya, he resurfaced two years later with Sweet Summer Days, and 1999 saw Obiedo move to the Domo label for the release of Modern World, a hybrid of R&B, pop, and Latin jazz.

Celebrate the release of Ray's new CD "Twist"

Yoshi's presents

Ray Obiedo & Friends

Sunday June 9th

One show starting at 7pm

Yoshi's 510 Embarcadero, Oakland, CA

Viva The Latin Jazz!!

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