Carlos Henriquez – A Nuyorican Tale (Carlos Henriquez, 2023)
Bassist Carlos Henriquez’s A Nuyorican Tale delves deep into the heart of New York City, exploring the intricate complexity of Puerto Rican and Nuyorican identity. Henriquez, whose musical career began in the Bronx, embodies a remarkable fusion of talent and cultural roots. He has traversed an extraordinary path, commencing with his early days at The Juilliard School’s Music Advancement Program, and culminating in his role as the Bass chair of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. His affinity for music was apparent from an early age, and it’s evident that he has harnessed that passion to create a lasting effect on the New York jazz and Latin music scene.
A Nuyorican Tale is more than just music; it’s a three-dimensional homage to the diverse puertorriqueño communities with African, Spanish, and Native Taino roots that have merged into the vibrant Nuyorican culture. The album’s narrative not only embraces the city’s historical struggles, particularly in areas like San Juan Hill and The South Bronx, but also highlights the cultural and social transformations that have shaped the Puerto Rican community in New York City. Through Latin Jazz interpretations, Henriquez, and his ensemble, masterfully convey the essence of these stories, emphasizing the significance of his people and their cultural contributions to the city.
The album features a stellar ensemble, including Jeremy Bosch, Mike Rodriguez, Terrell Stafford, Marshall Gilkes, Melissa Aldana, Robert Rodriguez, Anthony Almonte, and Obed Calvaire. Together, they bring to life the historical crossroads and racial tensions that have defined the Nuyorican experience in New York City.
Carlos Henriquez’s impressive resume, from the halls of LaGuardia High School of Music & Arts and Performing Arts to global stardom with the Wynton Marsalis Septet and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, is a testament to his dedication and artistry. His collaborations with legends like Cuban piano virtuoso Chucho Valdés, flamenco guitar maestro Paco De Lucia, and Tito Puente, as well as contemporary greats like Lenny Kravitz and Marc Anthony.
In recent years, Henriquez has taken on a leadership role within the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, guiding concerts with a mix of musicianship and visionary direction. His landmark collaboration with Rubén Blades in 2014, fusing salsa and jazz harmonies, underscored his innovative spirit and the orchestra’s commitment to musical diplomacy.
Notably, Henriquez’s previous projects, including The Bronx Pyramid, Dizzy Con Clave, and the Grammy-nominated The South Bronx Story, have highlighted his compositional talent and his ability to weave together the social history of the South Bronx with his Puerto Rican heritage.
Buy A Nuyorican Tale.
Author: Iliana Cabrera
