Spotlight: Dave Schumacher & Cubeye “Agua Con Gas”

Rather than functioning primarily as a supporting voice, the baritone saxophone shapes the musical architecture of the project. Schumacher’s phrasing reflects a deep understanding of both bebop language and Afro-Cuban rhythmic structure, allowing the instrument to move naturally within the clave while maintaining strong melodic authority. His approach recalls the lineage of Mario Rivera and Ronnie Cuber while clearly establishing a personal voice rooted in the modern New York Latin Jazz tradition.

The strength of Agua Con Gas is further reinforced by its exceptional rhythm section. Pianists Manuel Valera and Silvano Monasterios contribute complementary harmonic perspectives that balance tradition and modern jazz sensibility. Bassists Alex Apolo Ayala and Luques Curtis provide both propulsion and clarity throughout the recording, while percussionists Yusnier Sanchez and Mauricio Herrera create a rhythmic foundation that is authentic, dynamic, and supportive of the ensemble’s overall direction. Drummer Joel Mateo adds flexibility that allows the music to transition naturally between straight-ahead jazz language and Afro-Caribbean rhythmic frameworks.

The repertoire reflects both historical awareness and contemporary imagination. Original compositions are presented alongside thoughtful reinterpretations, including the traditional “Yambú,” which connects the project directly to Afro-Cuban roots. Arrangements of “Cubism,” “Barra-Cuber,” and Wayne Shorter’s “Prince of Darkness” further demonstrate the ensemble’s ability to bridge post-bop language with Latin Jazz orchestration.

Recorded at Trading 8s Studio and engineered by Chris Sulit, the album maintains a warm and balanced acoustic character that highlights ensemble interaction rather than studio polish. Each instrument remains clearly present within the mix, reinforcing the feeling of a cohesive working group rather than a constructed studio session.

Ultimately, Agua Con Gas stands as a compelling example of how Latin Jazz continues to evolve while remaining firmly connected to its tradition. By centering the ensemble around the expressive depth of the baritone saxophone, Dave Schumacher and Cubeye offer listeners a recording that is both historically grounded and unmistakably contemporary.

This is a must add to your latin jazz collection. You can purchase this excellent production via this link:
https://daveschumacher.bandcamp.com/album/agua-con-gas