Harold Lopez-Nussa – Herencia (2009) 320 Kbps

Herencia means 'heritage,' and this album of Latin jazz draws on a rising star pianist's roots in Cuba and France. 24-year-old Harold Lopez-Nussa was born into a Cuban musical dynasty -- the nephew of famous pianist Ernan Lopez-Nussa and the son of drummer Ruy Lopez-Nussa. Harold is best known for his piano work as a part of Omara Portuondo's band, and indeed the lead female singer of the Buena Vista Social Club appears on his album. Lopez-Nussa's formidble technique earned him the Laureate prize of the prestigious Montreux Jazz Piano Competition in 2005, leading to this stylish World Village debut that wanders carefree from the sultry clubs of Havana to the bright lights of NYC. On Herencia, Lopez-Nussa fronts a trio composed of bassist Felipe Cabrera (mostly known as a member of Gonzalo Rubalcaba's band) and drummer Ruy Adrian Lopez-Nussa (his brother). It makes ideal listening for fans of Chucho Valdes, Roberto Fonseca and the Buena Vista Social Club.