CD Review - I Feel Good by Julio Valdés 
(Independent 2014)
Review by Bill Tilford, all rights reserved

I Feel Good is the newest recording by Julio Valdés Fuentes, one of the most interesting Jazz and Fusion violinists in Cuba.  In addition to his own project, Pentajazz, he is a regular member (violin and keyboards) of Mezcla and performs periodically with several other ensembles. This album is entirely his own compositions (I Feel Good is NOT a cover of the James Brown song) and is another example of the diversification of the recording industry in Cuba.  This is independently produced and released but was recorded in the Estudios de Areito and Radio Progreso.  A few different styles are reflected in this recording - Inspiración and Old Havana will appeal to fans of Weather Report; Okantomi, Arbol Seco and Eshu have that special blend of Afro Cuban and modern Fusion that made Grupo Afrocuba so distinctive (Eshu is especially atmospheric); Atocha, I Feel Good and Rufles are all danceable; Rufles has some Jazz Rock elements.   Mr. Valdés does not monopolize the solos - all of the musicians are given an opportunity to stretch out in this album.   It may not be easy to find in the United States yet but will hopefully become widely available at some point in the future, and it is worth having if you find it.  

Songs (all composed by Julio Valdés)

1. Inspiración
2. Old Havana
3. Okantomi
4. Atocha
5. Arbol Seco
6. i feel good
7. Rufles
8  Eshu

Personnel in I Feel Good