MP3 Diamante - LATIN: Latin Jazz

Beautifully performed Spanish and Brazilian grooves played with a full band and percussion, capped off by passionate solo Flamenco guitar. This is a terrific blend that infuses the best of traditional and contemporary Latin styles.

12 MP3 Songs
LATIN: Latin Jazz, LATIN: Afro-Cuban

Show all album songs: Diamante Songs


Details:
"I think this is truly Duarte's expertise. I was
convinced of it when he played "Orient Express" on my Roots CD of which I continuously get many positive comments about his guitar work. This CD just proves me right. It deserves to be heard and it will certainly
be playing at my house"

Gregg Rolie - Co-founder, lead vocalist/keyboards: Santana, Journey

Duarte's musical style is firmly based in traditional Latin music, while referencing elements of funk and jazz fusion.

His playing remains beautiful and communicative throughout, reflecting a true sense of the gypsy spirit. In his solo acoustic playing, as well as in his searing electric solos, he plays with a passion that equally captivates the listener.

The youngest of seven children, Duarte was exposed to a broad range of musical styles, including rock, folk, and big band jazz. In grade school, his Spanish teacher would often stay after class, playing and singing Flamenco music, and accompanying herself on the guitar. This was a major influence in his development.

Duarte began playing guitar at age 12, becoming lead guitarist in a rock band within four months. His innovation and curiosity led him to classical music and jazz during high school, and he continued playing acoustic styles as therapy from the rock bands.

After leaving school, Duarte began to work professionally, playing R&B, funk, and other styles, touring and playing session dates. As he gravitated towards Latin music in the '80s, it soon became his main focus. He lived in England for a while, gigging there and throughout Europe. He toured with ex-Jerry Garcia keyboardist Merl Saunders, and played on recordings with ex-Santana/Journey keyboardist/vocalist Gregg Rolie.

Duarte's first Latin CD, Leyenda , was a mixture of classical, Spanish and Brazilian-contemporary music. His new release, Diamante, is a Latin-centric outing that focuses on danceable Brazilian grooves and fiery solo Flamenco pieces.

A live DVD will be released in 2004. Duarte plans to play in Europe and Brazil during forthcoming year.