Hilario Durán From the Heart (2-CD)

One of the top virtuoso pianists from Cuba, Hilario Duran had been receiving accolades and critical attention for his playing, arranging, and composing for some time before 2006's FROM THE HEART. Duran's playing takes center stage, but he is flanked by a huge ensemble that features brass, Latin percussion, electric guitar and bass, strings, and vocals from Dione Taylor, all of which gives FROM THE HEART a full, rollicking sound. Packed with great tunes, tasty grooves, and superior playing, the album was nominated for a Grammy for 2006.