Artist: Dany Brillant Album: Havana

Year: 1996
Duration: 0:0-1

Havana by Dany Brillant – A Delightful Blend of Jazz and Latin Rhythms

If you love jazz and Latin music, you won't be disappointed with Dany Brillant's album, Havana. The French singer, known for his melodious voice and versatile style, brings a refreshing twist to vintage classics from Cuba and Latin America. In this critical review, we'll take a closer look at the album, its music genre, the artist's background, the best songs, the most innovative parts, and a brief critique of the overall work. So, sit tight, grab a mojito or a café con leche, and let's dive into the musical world of Dany Brillant.

Dany Brillant, born Daniel Cohen-Biran in Tunisia, grew up in France and developed a passion for music from a young age. He started playing the guitar at 14 and later learned the piano, but it was his voice that caught the attention of record producers. His unique timbre, reminiscent of the golden era of crooners, made him stand out from the crowd. Brillant has released 14 studio albums to date, exploring various styles from swing to rock, chanson to world music. In Havana, he pays homage to his Cuban roots, blending jazz, mambo, bolero, and salsa with a touch of French flair.

The album opens with La Guapea, a catchy mambo rhythm that sets the tone for the rest of the tracks. Brillant's vocals, backed by a brass section and percussion, interplay with the melody, creating a festive atmosphere. Other notable songs include El Bodeguero, a classic bolero-jazz fusion that showcases Brillant's romantic side, C'est un Rythme, a swinging tune with French lyrics that adds a playful note to the album, and Quizás, Quizás, Quizás, a seductive cha-cha-cha that highlights Brillant's Latin sensibility.

One of the most innovative parts of the album is the seamless blend of different styles and languages. Brillant switches effortlessly from French to Spanish, from jazz to salsa, from a slow tempo to a frenetic pace, creating a rich tapestry of sounds. His voice, sometimes smooth and velvety, sometimes raspy and raw, adapts to the mood of each song, conveying a range of emotions from longing to joy. The arrangements, done by Brillant and his longtime collaborator Bruno Maman, are tight and dynamic, giving each instrument a chance to shine.

However, the album has some drawbacks as well. While Brillant's voice is undoubtedly charming, it may not appeal to everyone's taste. Some listeners may find it too polished or old-fashioned. Moreover, the choice of the songs, although respectable, may not offer enough surprises for those familiar with the Latin American repertoire. The album's production, while competent, lacks some of the rawness and spontaneity of live recordings.

In conclusion, Havana by Dany Brillant is a delightful album that showcases the artist's talent for blending jazz and Latin rhythms with his own twist. While not groundbreaking, the album offers a pleasant journey through some timeless classics, interpreted with charm and skill. Brillant's voice, arrangements, and multicultural vision make the album stand out from the crowd, although some minor flaws prevent it from being a masterpiece. Nonetheless, Havana is a recommended listen for anyone who loves music that transcends borders and brings joy to the soul.