Making a Latin Jazz statement that reflects the modern jazz language requires courage and a confident artistic presence. Many musicians shun this path, preferring a lifetime of performances that follow closely in the shadow of past leaders. In many ways, this path presents an easier road towards an artistic identity; the guidelines of the performance practice were defined long ago and someone else took the necessary risks to build them. The musician that draws upon the modern jazz language also has role models, but in many cases, the analysis of their work is happening in real time. Instead of a long history of detailed performances and analytical breakdowns, modern role models simply have their work – the contemporary Latin Jazz musician that follows their lead needs to figure everything out on their own. A complete copy of a “legendary” artist might seem like a tribute, but direct imitation of a contemporary musician seems like evidence of a thin artistic statement. Latin Jazz artists need to look deep inside themselves and discover the elements that make their artistic identity unique and find ways to intertwine those ideals with their influences. Building a Latin Jazz style upon the shoulders of modern music is a heavy task that requires a thorough artist full of integrity and depth.

Percussionist Arturo Stable resonates with a defined modern artistic presence that sits firmly in his work both as a performer and a composer. Born in Santiago de Cuba, Stable was raised in an artistic environment, following the lead of his father, a painter and musician. His family eventually moved to Havana, where Stable’s musical studies kicked into high gear, and he later earned a degree in percussion from the Amadeo Roldán Conservatory. Stable soon left the island in search of better pastures, landing in Puebla, Mexico. He earned a post-graduate degree in music education in Puebla, before heading to Berklee School of Music in Boston to study composition. He gained many contacts during his time at Berklee, and the percussionist soon found work with a diverse range of Latin Jazz artists, from Dave Samuels to David Sanchez, and Hector Martignon. In 2004, Stable recorded his first album as a leader, 3rd Step, making a definitive move forward as an artist. He followed with the 2007 release Notes on Canvas, a fascinating personal statement that interpreted several well-known paintings through original Latin Jazz compositions. Stable’s latest release, Call, brings all these elements together with stellar performances and distinctly modern compositions. Stable’s move towards a modern sound reflects the creative and searching presence of an intelligent musical mind, expressing himself with pieces of culture and society that shine with artistic integrity.

Today’s Weekly Latin Jazz Video Fix pays tribute to the strength and purpose of Stable’s artistic vision, in all its forms. The first clip reveals the details of his new album through music as well as interviews with members of his quintet. The second video shows Stable the bandleader guiding his group through a traditional descarga at the now defunct Chacacha Club. The last video finds Stable alone, showing the refined percussion skills that have made him an in-demand player on the modern scene. There’s some heavy musicianship here that bodes well for the modern Latin Jazz world. Enjoy!

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Arturo Stable On His Latest Album The Call

Arturo Stable Quintet Performing At Chacacha

Arturo Stable Quintet Performing Solo

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Want to hear more from Arturo Stable? Check out his older albums.

Notes on Canvas

3rd Step

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Do you have a video to contribute to satisfy our weekly Latin Jazz video fix? If so, send it in - it’s time to feed our addiction. I’m looking for live performances, from any context. I’ll most likely be posting one video per week, but if you’ve got another idea, let’s talk. So come on Latin Jazz videographers, musicians, and fans - let’s share some of our memorable videos! Get my contact info HERE

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Check Out These Related Posts:
Building a Bridge Between Concept and Listener: Origen Records and Arturo Stable
5 Artists That Are Making Us Question Our Assumptions About Latin Jazz
Album Of The Week: The Year Of Two Summers, Edward Perez
Album Of The Week: Dancando Com Ale, Greg Diamond

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