Kenya

Oh. Oh yes. OH YES! The furious bongos, the brass! Hook it directly into my veins! Have heard the opener around and about plenty of times as a bed under radio hosts but never knew what it was. If I could give this 7 stars I would. Thank You 1001 albums. I hereby forgive you One of the Ryan Adams entries.

Oof. This was a challenging album for a Monday morning. The chaotic, frenetic energy of cuban jazz is something I have to be in the mood for, not something that gets me in the mood. That said, this IS a damn good expression of the genre. It felt like the soundtrack to a 1970s spy movie and I am not sad about that. It was an enjoyable listen and I'll be saving it for another time when I AM in the mood.

Man this was a hot fire album, i listened to this at least 10 times yesterday and added it to my library, It’s brilliant, bright, and full of life. It made me happy just having it on in my background. Top tracks: all of them honestly there was not a track i did not like, Frenzy is probably my favorite out of all them though if I had to choose one. 5/5 all the way on this album

YESSSS Finally some jazz! "Me te amo Latin jazz!" I do love me some jazz, and this is a really great album. I'm not sure I hear "Kenya" in the sound, except maybe the percussion. Definitely sounds Caribbean, like that segment in Dr. Terror's House of Horrors set in "the West Indies." In general, the fusion of Latin jazz and big band sounds always reminds me of Tito Puente, which is a great thing. The style is impeccably consistent, I felt like I was transported to another place and time for half an hour. The place? Somewhere in Cuba. The time? This website lists 2000 as the release date but that was a reissue. This came out in 1957 (before our parents were born!). The oldest album we've heard so far, but easily one of my favorites. That's how timeless this kind of music is. Favorite tracks: Wild Jungle, Cannonology, Frenzy Album art: Nothing special. Seems like a picture you'd find in a museum brochure. Granted, it's a very old album, so you have to think about how this would have been marketed at the time. I'm not sure how many Americans were interested in Latin jazz in the '50s except as some museum-like cultural curiosity. 4.5/5

Great stuff! I love a good samba! Revenge? Of course! But why wound his body with bullets, when I can set his soul on fire with a slanderous mambo? ~Tito Puente

Holy cow! This is so much fun! At first I thought "Oh good - instrumental music to work by." That went out the window right away as "Wild Jungle" had my feet pulling me out of my chair to dance to the frenetic music. Those TPS Reports were not being well-served by KENYA. "Congo Mulence" took things down a notch, but didn't really get me back to work. Instead I just sat there swaying to the music imagining myself in a 1950s lounge drinking Pink Squirrels and Blue Hawaiians. For the rest of the album there wasn't a moment I wasn't enjoying this. I was transported elsewhere for the duration just listening, dancing and grooving. What's bad for productivity is great for my mental state. I love this album. It is so lively and the big band really swings! My only regret is I didn't get to see this performed live. Really happy this made the list!

Love

Fun listen. Afro-Cuban jazz like this will always put a smile on my face.

I loved this album. You can inject big band music right into my veins

This is fun jazz!

I think this an amazing album. It was much more big band and swing than I expected, but maintained that classic afro-cuban percussion. I hope we have some more jazz albums in the future because it was a great change in pace from the rock albums. This album was fun and bombasitc. I can't think of any song I didn't like, they were all unique in their own way but thematically consistent with the rest of the album. i will definitely be listening to this one again in the future.

Einfach extrem cool

Wow, this got me moving! Really enjoyed the amazing jazz. So much energy. Great trombone solos. A fantastic overall album. Really well recorded and mixed for the time, too.

This album is perfect. It’s a real masterpiece. A must listen. Horns, perfection. Drums, perfection. Drama - mood - life. It makes me want to think but it also makes me want to get up and get out. Wild Jungle is the perfect opening song - what an amazing track to start your album with. Run it up the guts Machito. Top tracks: Kenya Frenzy Blues in la Machito Conversation Tin tin deo

This album made me wish I knew how to dance. Really great swinging jazz!

How can you not like afro cuban jazz grooves?

Such a fun album! It paints a very vivid picture in my mind and brings a great mood. I love the complexity of the arrangements, the expert performances, and the great mixing. Fantastic!

This reminds me of wii music and I love wii music! ❤️❤️

To my untrained ears this just sounded like an organized mess of horns. I know I know. I’m sorry.

Great album. Never listened to Machito before but I really enjoyed this. This type of album is exactly what I'm looking for in this project. 5 stars all day.

The bass sounds great. The brass sounds great. The rhythm section sounds great. The first album that I've not heard before that truly deserves to be on this list. Excellent choice.

Put this on , make a cocktail, cook dinner, enjoy life

Absolutely fantastic big band jazz. Incredible percussion and kick ass arrangements.

Class

I don't have anything intelligent to say about this album. It was honestly a very enjoyable listen and one I will listen to several times when I work

very nice

Part of the reason I started this exercise was to uncover key releases in genres I knew little about. I have to admit, when it comes to Latin jazz, Afro-Cuban fusion, and big band music, I’m pretty unenlightened. That’s on me—I should do better. So, discovering Kenya by Machito felt like stepping into uncharted territory. My first reaction? What in the Pink Panther Soundtrack is this?! The album is a whirlwind of upbeat, high-energy compositions, performed by a collective of virtuosos. With track titles like “Frenzy” and “Wild Jungle,” it captures the controlled chaos of Afro-Cuban jazz perfectly. Under the musical direction of his brother-in-law, Mario Bauzá, Machito delivers each track with fire and precision. It’s a full-throttle showcase of the genre’s intensity. Critics have noted that, while the musicianship is top-notch, the structure—particularly in the trumpet sections—leaves little room for the freewheeling improvisation expected in jazz. But honestly, that control makes the album more approachable for someone like me, who’s new to the genre. The tight arrangements give listeners something to latch onto, even amid the flurry of horns and percussion. From my limited perspective, the African and Cuban influences feel mostly confined to the percussion, with jazz dominating the compositions. That said, I think the balance works in the album’s favour. If the Afro-Cuban elements were more dominant, it might lose some of its punch and clarity. Overall, Kenya was a fun, refreshing listen—and I can totally picture Austin Powers unwinding to it after a long day of espionage. Did/Do I own this release? No Does this release belong on the list? Yes Would this release make my personal list? Given my admitted ignorance, I’d probably choose a few of the "classics" first. Will I be listening to it again? In the right mood, absolutely. It’s the perfect soundtrack for a dinner party!

i put this album on in the background while playing a game and i thought it was quite excellent jazz isnt my go to genre by any means but i think this has inspired me enough to look into afro-cuban jazz and other genres similar

Unexpected. Brightens up even the gloomiest day!

Doctor! Ya gotta help me! My legs won't stop twitching! And I think it's spreading to the rest of my body... lookit my fingers! I see. They appear to have an uncontrollable rhythmic clicking. My goodness me! Your head has now developed bopping motions! This is serious! You have an advanced case of Afro-Cuban jazz! It's highly contagious and there's no cure. What can I do? I'm too young for Afro-cubanism. *Sobs* *bops* *hops* *flip-flops* *scats* This is the best I can do I'm afraid... Take two Brat Summers and call me in the morning.

Kenya Not a big jazz fan, don’t like salsa. I guess Buena Vista Social Club is in the same vein, and I did enjoy that when it came out (although it was cool to like it at the time) Sounds a lot like it should be the soundtrack to the Cuba scenes in Godfather Part II. Which makes sense as this is from 1957/58 and is Cuban. I know it was you, Fredo. In fact the whole thing does have an early 60s film soundtrack vibe, a bit like Dr No or something. I’m sure aficionados can tell the subtleties and variations in the rhythms and instrumentation, but I can only really tell the difference between the slightly slower ones and the not slightly slower ones. However, as an overall listen I did enjoy it. To my uneducated ear it seems to balance the Latin and jazz elements quite nicely, it doesn’t stray into Ron Burgundy style manic improvised jazz parping and trumpeting too much, or into the music you hear coming out of a provincial community centre on the over 60s salsa night. If I was in the mood for some relatively easy listening jazzy background music I would definite consider putting this on. It’s obviously not in my wheelhouse, but I’m really glad I listened to it and enjoyed it, and that I am now aware of its existence ⭐️⭐️⭐️

I dunno, felt kinda indifferent on this one. I didn't think it was bad by any means but I don't really have the frame of reference to get a sense of this album fully. On paper it's interesting; jazz mixed with african polyrhythmic percussion. But it doesn't really emotionally affect me much, which is the main thing I'm looking for in music. I'm just going to chalk it up to being a little ignorant on this sound and style of music because I could see myself trying to give it another shot at some point in the future. Maybe that's a cop out, but also this era of jazz being referenced has never really appealed to me in any way. 3 stars because *shrug*

This is pretty cool, thankfully not a "modern jazz" sound that's all based on maths and technical ability but more I guess a feel? kinda like blues but without pentatonics? Either way it's a catchy album from a bygone era, so it's cool but hard to judge. A song or two from it would go well on a summertime drinking playlist, but it's too samey to add the whole thing. just choose a couple of choice cuts and that'll do. 3/5,

Not in the mood. Fucking jazz, it’s up there with the harmonica as my least favorite type of music.

Jazz again, with some nice bits but mostly I just didn't care about it. Clearly talented musicians, but not for me.

Man this album goes hard. Incredible Afro-Cuban jazz record. Really enjoyed getting this today.

I can't say I've heard of Machito before. Born Frank Grillo, he was a Latin jazz musician who refined the Afro-Cuban jazz sound and helped pave the way for salsa. That much is evident on this album he composed with several percussionists and guest musicians. Throughout Kenya, the driving force of these tunes is the syncopated rhythms from the bongos, timbales, and congas that make them pop and danceable. The fiery intensity that can ebb and flow throughout this album, paired with the horns playing such eccentric lines, makes for such an engaging listen. Machito knew how to get the audience to run through different emotions with his compositions, whether it's the laid-back vibe of "Holiday" or the frenetic busy-work of "Frenzy". Not to mention how well-produced this was for 1957, with the brass and percussion mixed such that neither felt overpowering. Honestly, I couldn't find much to complain about this album. If such a jazz album can maintain my enjoyment throughout the runtime while retaining its Afro-Cuban identity, then that is a memorable and worthwhile listen. Much respect to the legend that is Machito.

Excellent album, all bangers, no skips.

Didn’t think I’d be rating any instrumental albums as 5 stars, but this album is just incredible. The layers of percussion keep the energy up continuously. The layers of brass sound so bright that they just cut through everything, right into your soul.

The good stuff

Love jazz, love this.

Best enjoyed with headphones

Badass Latin sound - don’t know what you haters are on about

Great for working

Incredibly solid for the genre

If you ever wanted a jazz album that sounds like the lost soundtrack to a ‘70s spy thriller—complete with car chases, rooftop escapes, and smoky underground clubs—Kenya is it. From the very first notes, the album bursts to life with fiery brass, intricate percussion, and a groove so infectious it feels impossible to resist. The Afro-Cuban rhythms are the backbone of the record, with congas, timbales, and bongos creating an unstoppable momentum, while the horn section punches through with sharp, commanding blasts that add urgency and drama. And then there’s trumpeter Mario Bauzá, whose playing is downright electrifying, cutting through the mix with soaring, razor-sharp lines that push the excitement even further. His melodies dance over the complex rhythms, giving the music a thrilling edge that feels both sophisticated and untamed. Beyond its cinematic energy, Kenya is a masterclass in Afro-Cuban jazz, seamlessly blending tight, big-band arrangements with raw, pulsing rhythm. The interplay between the horns and percussion is mesmerizing, constantly shifting between explosive outbursts and locked-in grooves that make every track feel alive. The call-and-response moments, the driving montunos on piano, and the syncopated basslines all contribute to an atmosphere of controlled chaos—everything feels carefully arranged yet completely spontaneous at the same time. It’s vibrant, it’s exhilarating, and above all, it’s the perfect mood lifter.

Huikea jazz-levy! Menoa, meinikiä ja rytmiä. 5/5

Absolutely incredible melodies over a phenomenal rhythm section.

short and sweet, incredibly fun album. i put it on at work and before i knew it i was halfway through it.

Unbelievably cool

animated and absurdly fun to listen to, this album will make any person strut and shimmy like they were carmen miranda. as is standard with big band jazz albums around this time, it has a strong emphasis on clever and complex pop beats and insane brass hits. compared to others I've listened to, this one has a much stronger latin flare; the rolling congas will make even a senile 90-year-old shake their bum like mad.

that was WONDERFUL! Loved every minute, latin/jazz/ salsa have a special place in my heart - best music to clean your house to

Incredible

Super energetic Afriacan beats over very smooth Big Band Jazz. Pure late 60s charm. Sexy and fun.

Hell yeah

Super rad. The hard panning is sometimes a bit tough but if I can do it for the Beatles I can do it for this. Other than that, very nice, my wife.

Fun, jazzy feel

Not the jazz I like to listen to with whisky, but, the kind that's fun to dance to.

5/5

This was great! I think the only one I like better is Dave Brubeck, but it is super close depending on my mood.

Fabulous. Nothing like some good jazz to get you going.

Simply fantastic Latin jazz album!

A real treat!

Cinco Estrellas!

Fabulous. Makes me want to invite over Kramer and Newman to make sausages in the kitchen

Fantastic and timeless. The 1950s were a great time for all genres of music. Then Mitch Miller showed up and ruined it all.

A very musical album, all of the songs has a fun beat and groove to them. In particular I liked the upbeat energy of Wild Jungle and the more relaxed rhythm of Holiday. Definitely an album I'm going to save.

Loved it. Very different but good for resetting the brain into a less stressed state

wow! future cuban afro jazz for the win. horrrrnnnsssss! more hornsssssss! toot toot!

Not my thing but was nice!!

Oh fuck yes!! This is music at its finest. If you had to listen to just 1 record before you die, this is the one. Infinity/5

It’s so dynamic and exciting and creative. I’m honestly mad at myself that I’d never heard of Machito before this.

Love discovering records from this era. Great background music for cocktail time, just like my grandparents intended.

Super fun jazz, fat horns and awesome rhythm. Really good 4.5/5

Where has this been my whole life? I resent that I didn't know about Machito. I may need to have words with my high school jazz band director. The horns are immaculate. The percussion precise. The groove impossible to ignore. It's joy to listen. MORE JAZZ PLEASE.

Really enjoyed this. The percussion is fantastic. Expecting jazz and (for my cretin tastes) and a this blasts at you and maintains a frenetic pace throughout.

very squeeky but i could totally imagine this as a soundtrack for a movie. only because it reminded me of lalaland.

Love it!

Pretty amazing

I love this one! It starts relaxing, gets more stressful in between, and cools down till the end again.

Great horns and songs.

-this is so delightful omg. I listened to this album a couple years ago before I was really interested in jazz but holy shit I love it sm. The high energy, the cultural fusion, every single song on here is exciting af -Favorites are Wild Jungle, Congo Mulence, Kenya, and Tin Tin Deo

Afro-Cuban goodness. damn near 70 years old and pure fire!

Super fun!

Heck yeah! This album makes me feel like I'm on vacation. A little dancing, a little bourbon, some appetizers... I know what I'm doing after work today!

Un disco de jazz con muchas influencias caribeñas. Suena a algo de calypso

Hard to fault this craic. Big band latin jazz glory

Very nice! IMO, it gets boring & a little monotonous after awhile though.

I loved it. I've said I don't like big band music, but I think it's the vocals that I don't like. I'll look up more of his work & Latin Jazz in general

As soon as I hit play on this, I had a massive sneezing fit. Not saying I'm allergic to Afro-Cuban beats, quite the opposite! This music makes me imagine a time of cigars, pencil skirts, and Ricky Ricardo accents. These jams pre-date Desi Arnaz and certainly paved the way for mainstream US popularity. Nothing to sneeze at, whatsoever!

It's jazz, but not the jazz I know. The pace and rhythm are fast-paced and almost hypnotic.

Absolutely loved it - was loads of fun all the way through

This is what I came here for. This stuff is awesome, and I probably would not have come across it otherwise.

I love this so much. So full of life!

Very fun, high energy album. I'm biased but feel like I need to give anything non-anglo-centric a higher rating. but this is such a fun album. Love these kinds of discoveries.

💖 holiday 🗣️ 9️⃣

Never heard of Machito, but absolutely loved the vibe of this album. Afro-Cuban jazz.... so enlightening and fun!

I wish I could hear this with new ears. It sounds like dated big band, but when actually listening the movement and timber is incredible. I wish I could hear it live. Amazing album, cultural aging has really let it down.

Thought this was gonna be perfectly rated as soon as it started, and I was right. I absolutely adore Afro-Cuban jazz but have found it a little hard to get into and learn about and finding out about one of the more seminal records of the genre through here is just awesome. Finding out that Cannonball Adderly was part of making this album as well makes sense as to why I loved this one in particular so much he's easily my favourite alto player as every single time he plays he exudes so much joy, and is the best possible reminder that, at its core, jazz isn't some stuffy music snob genre and it's actually about smiling and dancing and connecting through the music you play. And honestly that kind of sentiment feels intrinsic to this album, that the musicians would have known was not destined for the success of the jazz stars but was made for the love of the genres and cultures that were brought together by people that simply love music

WOOOOOAAAAAAHHHH!!!!! 5/5