Back in the days when he was just a fifteen year old upstart, trombonist Papo Vazquez got his hands on a J.J. Johnson record and attempted to play some of J.J.’s trombone solos. It was right then and there that the decision was made. If he were going to play the instrument like his newfound idol, then he’d have to study like never before.

AT THE POINT VOLUME TWO (CuBop 016) is the trombonist’s third and latest release and proof positive that study indeed he did. Papo is one of the premiere trombonists on the scene today as a result. On this, his second release for CuBop, Papo goes live once again. With a little help from friends like Andy Gonzalez (bass), Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez (drums), Arturo O’Farrill (piano), Richie Flores (percussion), and invited guests Michael Brecker (tenor sax) and Dave Valentin (flute), Papo picks up from where he left off on the previous release. What you get for the buck is pure unmitigated jazz on the Latin side, or what I like to call jazz con clave.

Papo and company shine throughout this latest set, which contains six tracks, one of which is an emotionally charged ballad beautifully performed by Papo, Arturo, Andy and Horacio. There’s rumba, son montuno, guaracha and even a merengue for those of you that want more than just the pleasure of listening. It just doesn’t get better than this.

AT THE POINT VOLUME TWO is one of the year’s best releases to date thus far and a serious contender for this year’s Latin Jazz Grammy. Kudos to producer Bob Sancho for having the courage and foresight to take on the project with no label support. The folks over at CuBop should also be commended for continuing with their Latin Jazz initiative. With the addition of Papo Vazquez, I’m sure that they are serious about bringing you the very best the genre has to offer.

Now, if you know what’s good for you you’ll pick up a copy of AT THE POINT VOLUME TWO by Papo Vazquez. Why? Did I neglect to inform you that the band goes by the name Pirates and Troubadours? You know what happens when pirates strike, right? Let’s avoid all that. Just get out and pick up a copy. You won’t regret it.