Latin jazz is a musical genre that has its roots in jazz, but incorporates elements of Afro-Cuban and Brazilian music. The drum-set plays a crucial role in Latin jazz and is responsible for creating the rhythmic foundation of the music. Horacio Hernandez is widely regarded as one of the best Latin jazz drum-set players, but there are several other musicians who have made significant contributions to the genre and are worth mentioning.
One such musician is Dafnis Prieto. Born in Cuba, Prieto is a multi-talented percussionist who has been active in the Latin jazz scene for several decades. He has recorded numerous albums and collaborated with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Chucho Valdes and Gonzalo Rubalcaba. Prieto is known for his intricate and energetic drumming style, which draws upon his classical training and his deep understanding of Afro-Cuban music.
Another notable Latin jazz drummer is Bobby Sanabria. Born in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, Sanabria is a multi-instrumentalist who has played with some of the biggest names in Latin music, including Tito Puente and Eddie Palmieri. He is also a respected educator and has taught at several universities and conservatories. Sanabria is known for his deep knowledge of Afro-Cuban music and his ability to incorporate traditional rhythms into his drumming.
Pernell Saturnino is a percussionist from the Dominican Republic who has made a name for himself as a Latin jazz drummer. He has recorded several albums and collaborated with many of the top musicians in the genre, including Arturo Sandoval and Johnny Pacheco. Saturnino is known for his ability to incorporate elements of funk and R&B into his drumming, which gives his playing a unique edge.
A fourth Latin jazz drummer worth mentioning is Mark Walker. Born in Texas, Walker has worked with several prominent Latin jazz musicians, including Paquito D’Rivera and Claudio Roditi. He is known for his versatility as a drummer, which allows him to effortlessly switch between different styles and rhythms. Walker is also a respected educator and has taught at several universities and conservatories.
In conclusion, Horacio Hernandez is widely regarded as one of the best Latin jazz drum-set players, but there are several other musicians who have made significant contributions to the genre and are worth mentioning. Dafnis Prieto, Bobby Sanabria, Pernell Saturnino, and Mark Walker are all highly respected Latin jazz drummers who have made their mark on the genre and continue to inspire new generations of musicians.
Source:
- “The Latin Jazz Drumming of Bobby Sanabria” by Bobby Sanabria and Chuck Silverman.
- “Dafnis Prieto: Taking the Drumset to New Heights” by David R. Adler.
- “Pernell Saturnino: The Dominican Drummer Who Brings Funk to Latin Jazz” by David R. Adler.
- “Mark Walker: The Versatile Latin Jazz Drummer” by David R. Adler.
