Peter Louis - Cute
Latin, Jazz
New Jersey, United States
Overall Impression: A truly tantalizing re-imagining of the Neal Hefti tune "Cute", Peter Louis's fantastic Latin-styled cover manages to respectfully pay tribute to the original source material whilst creatively injecting it with that quintessential fiery red-blooded edge that Latin-inspired styles are so synonymous with. Possessing a truly riveting arrangement that's replete with both a deep sense of harmonic maturity and exciting melodic flair, Peter Louis's version of "Cute" offers listeners a cavalcade of compelling musical ideas that are heightened even further by the accomplished performances that bring the track to life, and whether your a fan of Jazz or not (Of which I most certainly am), you can't help appreciate the sheer level of musicianship on display.
Strongest Point(s): It's always interesting to hear how an artist approaches a cover, it's one thing to be able to successfully preserve the specific characteristics that make a piece of music what it is, but it's something else entirely to take those distinct flavors and create something fresh and exciting with them, all the while respecting the essence of the original material. Peter Louis clearly understands this and has managed to walk this creative tightrope like a true craftsman, retaining the core musical principles that serve as the foundation of "Cute" whilst imprinting his own creative stamp on the tune with both great confidence and character. The way Latin rhythms have been cleverly incorporated helps to instantly shine a new light on the original material whilst Peter Louis effectively utilizes some of the quirkier, more flamboyant qualities of the Latin Jazz style to great effect, giving the track those certain off-kilter harmonic and melodic elements that the Latin-Jazz style is renowned for. These elements are of course greatly elevated by the stunning performances throughout, the melodic and rhythmic interplay between the various sections of the instrumentation is given such energy and dynamism that the arrangement always feels as if it's gravitating towards the next exciting dash of creative wonder, as a result, the track flows brilliantly, giving listeners a thoroughly rewarding listening experience that is sure to get them moving.
Target Audience Appeal: Lovers of Latin-infused Jazz will most certainly appreciate this fantastic cover.
Artist target suggestions: Neil Hefti, Charlie Parker, Francisco Aguabella, Miles Davis, Mario Bauza, Chick Corea, Tito Puente, Paquito D'Rivera, Return To Forever, Dizzy Gillespie, Eddie Palmieri, Machito, Noro Morales
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About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.