Names of Videos: AfroCuban Coordination for Drumset and Brazilian Coordination for Drumset, Featuring Maria Martinez, Hal Leonard Corporation
Websites: http://www.regaltip.com/martinez_intro.html, Hal Leonard
Reviewer: Sue Hadjopoulos
In videos of roughly 45 minutes in length Maria Martinez has given us a clear, concise manual for playing authentic Afro-Cuban and Brazilian rhythms on drumset. She provides us with an incredible wealth of information on Latin rhythmic styles that will keep serious drummers practicing for a very LONG TIME!

Both videos follow identical formats. In each video Ms. Martinez provides clear lesson plans for learning the various Latin rhythms. Each video comes with a booklet, which includes an easy to read transcription of the various rhythms with exercises to develop "coordination, feel and improvisation skills." Ms. Martinez masterfully breaks down intricate Latin rhythms (which would normally be played by a Latin percussion section of 2 or 3 percussionists in a Latin band) into simple, understandable forms that can be played by a single drummer.

Throughout the videos, she refers to various numbered examples, gives a brief discussion of the form and then demonstrates on drum kit. She also provides us with a brief history of Latin rhythmic styles and demonstrates on the original Latin percussion instruments (such as claves, congas, timbales, pandeiro and tamborim) to clearly show how the rhythms are adapted for drumset. The lessons are then interspaced with performances by the band, which demonstrate the various Latin rhythmic styles in live performance.

In Afro-Cuban Coordination For Drumset she discusses Clave, Mambo, Nanigo, Songo, and Mozambique rhythms. And in Brazilian Coordination for Drumset she discusses Bossa Nova, Samba Parido Alto and Baiao Styles and gives studies in 4/4 Bosa Nova, 2/2 Samba and ¾ and 7/4 examples of both.

I found Ms. Martinez' knowledge of clave and various Latin styles impressive. Her attention to detail, accuracy and authenticity is commendable, considering the controversy and confusion that has frequently surrounded the correct transcription of Latin rhythms, particularly Afro-Cuban styles, which were largely handed down by word of mouth until fairly recently. Add to that, the fact that Latin rhythms are not static forms and are constantly changing and evolving and you have a tall order to fill. However in Ms. Martinez' case, she succeeds admirably with authenticity as the key word.

Hal Leonard once again gives us a professional looking video with a simple clear set; Maria Martinez on the drumset front and center surrounded by her band. There are camera angles from above, front and side that show her playing clearly with plenty of close ups, and when necessary, the use of a split screen so we can see her high hat and kick foot simultaneously while she is demonstrating hand positions. Mark Freed did an excellent job in editing the video. And Robert Kyle with the band provides the original Latin material and performance used in the videos.

I was very impressed by these two videos. Maria Martinez and Hal Leonard have provided us with an excellent "How To" guide to Latin Drumming. And with a selling price of only $19.95 each, these videos are a MUST for any serious drummer's library.

About the reviewer:

Sue Hadjopoulos began her career in the field of Latin music as founding member and timbalera of LATIN FEVER, a 14-piece all female salsa band produced by Latin bandleader/pianist, Larry Harlow, "El Judio Maravilloso". Their breakthrough CD, Larry Harlow Presents Latin Fever, rose to the top of the Latin charts and the single "Lo Que Te Gusta Mas" became a #1 hit in Puerto Rico. She went on to perform with various salsa bands and fondly remembers receiving a standing ovation for her timbale solo with Latin vocalist Ismael Quintana and laudable praise from the master himself, Tito Puente, who told a sold out crowd at the annual Fania All Stars Concert at Madison Square Garden that he would have to retire after hearing her play.

Sue's smooth blend of pop/salsa rhythms has become her trademark. Known for her versatility, inspired percussion arrangements and strong vocal harmonies, she has since worked with such diverse artists as Ricky Martin, Enrique Iglesias, Joe Jackson, Basia, Barry Manilow, Kenny Loggins, Cyndi Lauper, Simple Minds, Rickie Lee Jones, Jane Siberry, Vicki Sue Robinson, B-52s, Toni Braxton, Laurie Anderson, David Byrne, They Might Be Giants, Laura Nyro, Davy Jones (Monkees), Mick Jones (Foreigner), Teena Marie and Michael Monroe (Hanoi Rocks) For more information, visit Sue's website: http://sue_hadjopoulos.tripod.com

© April 2003 Happy Mazza Media, LLC.
Contact Drummergirl