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World-renowned drummer/percussionist Alex Acuña and legendary reed-man Justo Almario come together with the aid of some of L.A.'s top latin jazz musicians to produce their sophomore release as the all-star ensemble Tolú. Bongó de Van Gogh delivers an exciting repertoire of original compositions plus a few cover tunes, all displaying a well-balanced blend of jazz music with Pan-American rhythms. The highly skilled ensemble grooves throughout the eleven tracks contained on this CD, shining on the opening track Five, a Bill Evans composition arranged by Almario; Cançao do Sal (Salt Song), a Milton Nascimento composition also arranged by Almario and featuring the guest vocals of Katia Moraes; Quítate de la Via Perico, a Juan Hernández composition made famous by "El Sonero Mayor," Ismael Rivera, and arranged here by trumpeter Harry Kim, and the title track Bongó de Van Gogh, a Justo Almario composition which blends the rhythms of the Cuban chachacha and danzon, buoyed by an energetic bongó solo by Michito Sánchez. A firmly founded home band for both bandleaders Almario and Acuña, as well as for most of its supporting members (whenever in town), Tolú reconfirms its commitment to making quality music with this latest recording. Lineup Luis Conte -- Congas,Cajón Harry Kim -- Trumpet, Flugelhorn Ricardo Tiki Pasillas -- Timbales, Percussion John Peña -- Bass Joe Rotondi -- Piano Michito Sánchez -- Bongo, Percussion Arturo Velasco -- Trombone Alex Acuña -- Drums Justo Almario -- Sa