Ernie and Bert go BRUTAL :)

I laughed my butt off when I saw this one!!!!

LAST RECORDING SESSION!!!

I am finally done with the recording of "Invisible" Last Monday was the last recording session. My buddy Jonathan Dane (I can't believe it bro, 12 years have gone by since you joined the band) Did a wonderful job with his trumpet, and I did the last "coloring" tracks with a few percussion toys. Now, mixing, mastering and that is it!!!!!!!

Last Friday session, 10/30/09

With master Costa Rican percussionist Ramses Araya, doing some Bata tracks on "Sobrevivenvia", last Friday night, at Tantrum Studios, in Montecito, CA. ¡Linda mae, gracias! L.

Minestrone de Alice Waters (Chez Panisse)

Resultado final para esta noche. Alice Waters es considerada la "mama" de la cocina Californiana moderna, y esta receta es increible. Con un poquito de aceite de oliva, queso Parmesano Reggiano y un buen vino y vámonos, la cena perfecta para una noche de "Otoño" en Cali!!!!

Minestrone de Alice Waters (Chez Panisse)

¡Con tanta cortadera, por dicha que compré cuchillo nuevo! Dinner tonight.

FOOD!

Trying a few new things for dinner, easy and delicious; Pizza on the grill and a wonderful Butternut Squash and vanilla Risotto.

Thin crust pizza with Kalamata Olives, Basil and Fresh Tomatoes

Photos from session this last weekend!

A few images from last Saturday's session. 6 cuts in 10 hours. For those interested, these are my beloved drums...my baby: Yamaha Maple Custom, 18" kick, 10" and 12" toms, 14x14" floor tom. Paiste cymbals include 20" light ride, 18" and 14" crashes and 14" hi hats, all Traditional line. Also, a 21" dry ride and a Signature 20" Flat ride. Beautiful cymbals!!!!

Master percussionist Brad Dutz "Trash Talking" so to speak

Tantrum Studios, "Invisble" session, Montecito, CA.

Brad Dutz, Luis Muñoz and Emmet Sargent in session

Tantrum studios. "Invisible" Session. I talk, Brad listens and Emmet laughs...No one takes me seriously :)

NEW PHOTOS FROM COSTA RICAN SESSION

The first of many photos taken in Costa Rica last month by my buddy Agustin Vicente Fallas, who happens to be the son of my great friend, manager and collaborator Agustin Fallas Santana. I believe he did a wonderful job and we will be using his images for the cover of my upcoming CD "Invisible" to be released at the end of the year. Thanks Agus!!!!

TWO FANTASTIC JAZZ BANDS/BRIAN BLADE FELLOWSHIP

Donny McCaslin Group & Dave Douglas - Madonna #1 [2008]

Donny McCaslin Group & Dave Douglas - Madonna #2 [2008]

SUNDAY BREAKFAST/ MOM'S RECIPE/INVISIBLE!

My mom's old recipe for huevos con tomate: four eggs, roasted chiles and tomatoes, shallots and garlic(drop the tomatoes in boiling water for ten seconds in order to get rid of the peel), parsley, cilantro, salt and pepper to taste...HMMMMMMM!!! Delicious!. Add to that a salad of grape fruit, strawberries and bananas, with just a little hint of jasmine honey and rose water, some cafe con leche,and you are in for a great treat and a wonderful beginning of a lazy Sunday morning! After breakfast, back to the studio and some more editing on "INVISIBLE", my new CD to be out this December.

CAMARON DE LA ISLA Y TOMATITO/BULERIAS/ TWO MASTERS!

TOMATITO-1980-BULERIAS

Recent Readings

*Vera Stravinsky & Robert Craft - Stravinsky in Pictures and Documents"
*John Irving - "Until I Find You"
*Cormac McCarthy - "The Road" (Pulitzer Prize winner).
*Junot Diaz - "The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao" (Pulitzer Prize winner).

THE GREATEST ONES ALWAYS SEEM TO GO FIRST!

"An honest man is always a child" Socrates
RIP

Mar azul - Cesária Évora & Marisa Monte

A HAPPY MAN

Last night's dinner...Lots of olives and cappers, garlic, fresh basil... and a good bottle of wine... a happy man! When I hit the wall with music, cooking is always the answer.

BACK IN THE STUDIO 2

One of my favorite musicians in the entire world, the great chromatic harmonica player, Mr. Ron Kalina does his magic on "Manantial".

BACK IN THE STUDIO

After spending a couple of weeks in Costa Rica, having fun with old friends and family, I am back in the studio, doing the very last sessions needed to finish my new CD. Here, my friend and fellow band member, master percussionist Brad Dutz, lays some marimba and hand percussion tracks, while I do an alto flute track on "Tango y Sangre de la media Noche".

COSTA RICA

WITH MY DRUM TEACHER" PITUZA" IN COSTA RICA

I've only received about 9 drum lessons in my life, and several of them where in Costa Rica, in my early teens, with the wonderful "Pituza", whom I just saw last week for the first time in decades.

BACK FROM COSTA RICA

I am back from Costa Rica. I had a wonderful time with friends and family. On my flight back I had the pleasure of hanging with the members of the Club Sport Herediano Costa Rican soccer team, many of them part of the National Team. Here I am with Andy Herron, (ex Chicago Fire, ex Columbus Crew), center forward for the Costa Rican team that beat the US last week 3 to 1.

Costa Rica 3, USA 1

Having a great time...A brake from the business aspect of the trip. An incredible performance by Costa Rica. I had the pleasure of being at the stadium with my friend Agustin.( I am the one wearing a red shirt... :) ). Celebration with a delicious steak at "El Chicote" and a few cold "Imperiales" afterwards. Also working on a Central American tour for next spring. Back in the US on Tuesday.

RAICES

I AM OFF TO COSTA RICA FOR A FEW WEEKS...MY ROOTS...CHILDHOOD...OLD FRIENDS AND FAMILY...THE BEAUTY OF NATURE...

IMAGES FROM RECENT RECORDINGS #2

Jonathan Dane (Trumpet), Emmet Sargeant (Sound Engineer) and Luis (what does he do anyway...?).

IMAGES FROM RECENT RECORDINGS!

A few images from recent recording sessions at Tantrum Studios in Montecito, CA: With bassist Tom Etchart, my good friend Beto de Leon (el Incansable...) and violinist Laura Heckstein

APOCALYPTIC!!!

That's what my son Adam called it as we started to get engulfed in a dark red cloud of smoke and ash during the incredible fire that has been attacking our community for the last 72 hours. After packing our cars with a few things of value (my music, my cat, my computer, a few paintings and old photos) we headed out to our friend's Paco and Jeannette Rodriguez's house (thanks guys!) where we spent a few nights away from the flames. But life goes on and tonight I will be in the studio working again on my new CD...

OLDER BUT WISER...I THINK!!!!!!!!

Tired, after an intense but wonderful session at "Sound Design" Studios in Santa Barbara, CA, with Dom Camardella, studio owner and old friend, and great organ player Jimmy Calire. Check out the absolutely beautiful brand new Neve console. It was a blast and I got exactly what I was looking for!!!!!!!

Recording "Tango"

My friend George Quirin at yesterday's session, doing the guitar track for "Tango y Sangre de la Media Noche". Tomorrow I will be at Sound Design Recording Studios in Santa Barbara, working with my old partner in crime, Dominic Camardella. We'll be recording some Hammond organ tracks with Jimmy Calire ( a great Buffalo, NY musician who used to play with the group "America". His son drums for Ozomatli). I am already more than half way done with the new recording, and very happy with the results so far. L.

CARRIZO PLAINS 4/3/09

BETWEEN RECORDING SESSIONS 2!

Taking a break from recording (next week i have lots of sessions), trying to clear the mind and after cooking a big Moroccan meal ( butternut squash and lentil soup, fennel and black olive salad with lemon vinaigrette, caramelised onions with chargrilled eggplants, spicy prawns, basmati rice, figs with rosewater, almonds and honey, and of course, moroccan mint tea, we went to an orchid show in search of the "Guaria Morada", the Costa Rican National Flower. Hundreds of flowers later, we walked out empty handed but joyful !

BETWEEN RECORDING SESSIONS!

Photos by my lovely wife HollyAnn!

Astor Piazzolla: milonga del angel

BLISS!

PINKER PLACE # 2

My first time posting from my iPhone . The wonders of modern technology!

PINKER PLACE #1

Hanging out in the snow at Mountain High's Pinker Place Park Road with some strange characters:

GIL SCOTT HERON/MESSAGE TO THE MESSENGERS

SIN COMENTARIO

Happy Cannyon/Santa Inez Mountains/ Business meeting

Agustin Fallas, my dear friend from childhood and my manager for issues in Latin America came and visit me to plan some concerts down south and at the same time, have some fun together in CA. Good conversations, good meals and a few great Jazz concerts (David Binney at the Pasadena Jazz Institute)...Here are a couple of pictures taken during our drive up north to Happy Canyon in the Santa Inez mountains. Not a bad spot at all to talk business!

HAVING FUN @ STAPLES CENTER

Having fun last night at Staples Center in Los Angeles, watching "the other" L.A. NBA team. Unfortunately the Clippers lost their 15th in a row, but it was lots of fun anyway, hanging with the family and taking a break from the studio. THe new CD is coming out great. This month, Lois Mahalia will be doing two more tunes, then I'll bring in Jonathan Dane (trumpet) and Jim Calire, a wonderful Hammond player to do a B3 track. I am very, very satisfied with the results so far. L.

“Everything you can imagine is real." Pablo Picasso

3RD SESSION, TAMTRUM STUDIOS, MONTECITO, CA 12/08

THIRD SESSION FOR NEW PROJECT ON 12/19/08. FIRST, WE REHEARSED AT MY STUDIO, THEN AFTER A GOOD HOME COOK MEAL, WE HEADED TO TAMTRUM STUDIOS IN MONTECITO, CA WHERE GUITARRIST CHRIS JUDGE AND BASSIST TOM ETCHART LAID DOWN SOME AWSOME TRACKS ON "DE ALMA Y SOMBRA" AND "ESPERANZA". GOOD URUGUAYAN FRIEND, EX MANAGER AND ALL AROUND GOOD GUY/ MUSIC LOVER BETO DE LEON JOINED IN. THINGS ARE GOING BETTER THAN EXPECTED. THIS MORNING AT 3:00 AM I AM OFF TO TUCSON, AZ. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!

SECOND RECORDING SESSION AT BEAGLE STUDIOS FOR NEW CD

Th greatest joy in the world for a composer is to get in the studio exactly what at one point only existed in his or her imagination. Lois Mahalia gave me just that last night with her performance of "HYMN". Beautiful voice, beautiful soul. Thanks Lois!

FIRST RECORDING SESSION AT BEAGLE STUDIOS FOR NEW CD

I was very glad to be back this weekend to Beagle Studio for the first session for a new CD to be released next year. Located in Montecito, CA, Beagle Studios is a beautiful place surrounded by fields of green and forests of pine trees and oaks. Singer Andy Zuñiga and studio owner Emmet Sargeant were also there. This coming week, beautiful and talented singer Lois Mahalia, along with guitarist Chris Judge and bass player Tom Etchart will cut some tracks including the lead vocals for a Gospel spiritual "Hymn"

HYMN


Blessed are the ones who surrender to Love
For they’ll inherit the Kingdom of Heaven
Few are the ones who will rise from despair
Many the ones who are bowed down and fallen (but)

Hope is a waking dream, it’s a sunrise
Hope…from a withered tree, flowers blossom.

Open your heart to the world and rejoice (and)
Live as if you’ll die tomorrow
Learn as if you’ll live forever and
Hope as if hope were the beat of your heart.

In the twilight each star is a dream
Blessed are the dreamers on top of the mountain
Wise are the ones who seek treasures within
For they will find and drink from the fountain

Hope is a waking dream, it’s a sunrise
Hope…from a withered tree, flowers blossom.

Open your heart to the world and rejoice and
Live as if you’ll die tomorrow
Learn as if you’ll live forever and
Hope as if hope were the beat of your heart.
----------------
Hope is a waking dream, it’s a sunrise
Hope…from a withered tree, flowers blossom.

Open your heart to the world and rejoice (and)
Live as if you’ll die tomorrow
Learn as if you’ll live forever and
Hope, step away from the shadow
Love with no fear and no sorrow

.

MY MUSIC ON NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

My music gets mentioned in an article on National Geographic Magazine. To read more: http://worldmusic.nationalgeographic.com/worldmusic/view/page.basic/country/content.country/costa_rica/

NEXT GENERATION-WYSE LA KID @ HOME STUDIO B

MPC, MICROKORG, DX7 AND A THOUSAND RECORDS AND YOU ARE ALL SET FOR MAKING BEATS. MY SON ADAM WILL BE COLLABORATING WITH ME ON ONE TRACK ON MY UPCOMING CD, TO BE RELEASED NEXT YEAR.

THE NEXT GENERATION-ADAM AND MATT WORKING HARD/HOME STUDIO #2

¡DESPERTAMOS EN UN MUNDO DIFERENTE ESTA MANANA!

MUSIC AND POLITICS

It’s been over a month since I last posted on my blog. I’ve been very busy. Two things have been taking all my time lately. Number one, I started recording a new CD. So far, I’ve been working in my home studio, doing most of the work myself. However, bassist Tom Etchart, guitarist Narciso Sotomayor, keyboardist George Friedenthal and singer Teka have also stopped by to do some tracks for me. So far, I have 9 new compositions among them: Malabarista (The Juggler), Manantial, Sendero Luminoso and Tango y Sangre de la Media Noche. The recording won’t be released for another year, but it sure feels great to get started with it.

The other thing that has been keeping me busy is politics. I am proud to say that I’ve been spending lots of time trying to help Mr. Barack Obama become the next president of the United States. I’ve also been involved with the upcoming local elections, helping Louise Capps, Pedro Nava, Anna Beth Jackson and the rest of the Democratic candidates. I’ve met some wonderful people on the way. It’s been a very interesting endeavor, making phone calls all over the country, talking to people, sharing ideas, and listening to their fears, hopes and interests. A wonderful learning experience and a satisfying one. I hope to be celebrating Mr. Obama’s victory this coming Tuesday.

FACING THE POLITICAL PROCESS

In less than two months, we will be facing the most important presidential election of our lifetime, an act that will influence the entire universe and in many ways will choose the path of modern civilization. It is an unprecedented opportunity for all of us to get involved in record numbers, cast a vote and be a part of such a process...
click here to read more:
http://luisbook.blogspot.com/search/label/OPINION/

ADAM AND YOSHI LISTENING!

NOW, PAY ATTENTION GUYS, WE'LL BE TESTING YOU LATER...

FIRST RECORDING SESSION

Last sunday I had the first recording session for a new CD, to be released some time next year. I had the opportunity to work again with my dear friend and wonderful Brazilian singer Teka Pentiriche. She recorded both lead and background vocals on a new bilingual tune (Spanish and Portuguese) entitled "Manantial". Click here to see the lyrics:
http://luisbook.blogspot.com/search/label/LYRICS

IN CONCERT!

BIG SUR/MONTEREY/ASILOMAR BEACH/CARMEL

A few images that my wife HollyAnn took during our trip up north just this last week (I was doing a gig in Carmel by the Sea), including photos of our stop in Big Sur, Asilomar Beach, the oldest working lighthouse in CA and jellyfish at the Monterey Aquarium.

COURTHOUSE JAZZ FESTIVAL PHOTOS

Luis Muñoz: Drums
Narciso Sotomayor: Guitar
Tom Etchart: Bass

COURTHOUSE JAZZ FESTIVAL PHOTOS

A few more images from our last show of the summer at the Santa Barbara Courthouse Jazz Festival. Thanks to Rob Hoffman for the images:
Brad Dutz on marimba
George Friedenthal on keyboards
Jonathan Dane on trumpet
Special guest Luis Conte on percussion

SANTA BARBARA COURTHOUSE JAZZ FESTIVAL 8/29/08

It was our last performance of the summer and a magical one! The band clicked and so did the audience at the Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Gardens. A beautiful evening at a beautiful place. We also had the pleasure to be joined on stage by one of the greatest percussionists in the world, Mr. Luis Conte (Madonna, Michael Jackson, James Taylor, Phil Collins, etc.).

LUIS MUNOZ LIVE AT THE COURTHOUSE JAZZ FESTIVAL 8/29/08-LA MACHACA

Luis Munoz telling the "Machaca" story while performing at the Courthouse Jazz Festival in Santa Barbara, CA, on 8/29/08. Trumpeter Jonathan Dane had just been bitten by one some 23 hours prior to the concert...

I MET THE WALRUS

LUIS MUNOZ LIVE AT "THE JAZZ BAKERY"-08/23/08

Video of "Los Ojos De La Ausencia", the opening song of our final night at "The Jazz Bakery", Los Angeles premiere Jazz club. The composition, a quartet piece which I wrote a few years back, will be on my next CD, to be released in 2009. It features Tom Etchart on Bass, George Friedenthal on Piano, Narciso Sotomayor on Guitar and myself on drums. For the rest of the show, Jonathan Dane on Trumpet and Brad Dutz on Marimba and Hand Percussion joined in.

NEXT PERFORMANCE: THIS FRIDAY, AUGUST 29TH AT 5:30 PM.

This Friday, August 29, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM, we'll be playing at the beautiful Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Gardens, as part of the Courthouse Jazz Series. The concert is free and will benefit the "Breast Cancer Resource Center". The venue is absolutely beautiful! Bring a picnic basket, a bottle of wine, a blanket and enjoy the show. For more info, visit: http://www.courthousejazz.com/ Cheers! Luis.

A GREAT TIME AT THE JAZZ BAKERY!!!!!

We had a great time at the Jazz Bakery! Wonderful audience, wonderful venue. Thanks Ruth!!!

THIS WEEKEND/LIVE AT THE JAZZ BAKERY!

This Friday, August 22 and Saturday, August 23, we will be performing at the Jazz Bakery in Los Angeles, the premier Jazz venue in Southern California ( 3233 HELMS AVE, Los Angeles, CA 90034. Phone:310-271-9039). There will be two shows nightly: 8 PM & 9:30 PM. Tickets: $25 ($13 for students 21 and under). Please, join us! Luis.

KPFK RADIO INTERVIEW IN LOS ANGELES/THE GLOBAL VILLAGE/LISTEN NOW!!

In case you missed my interview with Yatrika Shah Rais on KPFK's "Global Village", you can now listen to it here. Just click on the title of this post...

KPFK RADIO INTERVIEW IN LOS ANGELES/THE GLOBAL VILLAGE

At the KPFK studios in Los Angeles, on "The Global Village" with host Yatrika Shah Rais. Thanks so much Yatrika!!!! Luis.

FOUR RADIO INTERVIEWS: KCSB, 91.9 FM AND KPFK 90.7 LOS ANGELES

I will be doing four radio interviews next week. On Wednesday, August 13 at 11:00 AM I'll be on KCSB (91.9 FM in Santa Barbara, CA), on the Stanley Naftaly Show by phone, and on Thursday August 14, at 12:30 PM, I will be also on KCSB with Colter Frazier. On Wednesday, 8/13 I will be live on KPFK's Global Village with host Yatrika Shah-Rais. On Saturday, August 16th, at 6:30 PM, I will be going back to KPFK, on the Spanish speaking program "Canto Sin Fronteras", with Host Tanya Torres Mayahuel. (KPFK 90.7 FM Los Angeles, 98.7 FM Santa Barbara. Pacifica Radio for Southern California).

Also, do not forget our next performances, at Soho in Santa Barbara, on Thursday, August 14th, at 8:00 PM and at The Jazz Bakery in Culver City on Friday, August 22 and Saturday, August 23. Hope to see you then. Luis.

UP NORTH/DOWN SOUTH/LAST 2 WEEKENDS

Relaxing up north (Montaña De Oro, SLO County) and down south ( Dodger Stadium with Adam, Holly and Carter. Dodgers won, Manny is great!), before getting started with rehearsals for upcoming August shows and pre production for next CD

40 OF MY FAVORITE RECORDINGS OF ALL TIME

NEXT PERFORMANCE/ SOHO ON 8/14/08

On Thursday, August 14, at 8:00 PM. we will be at Soho, in Santa Barbara. Soho Music Club is located at 1221 State Street, Suite 205, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. For reservations:805-962-7776.

LIVE AT LACMA WITH THE TONGUE OUT/6/28/08

TICKETS FOR JAZZ BAKERY SHOWS ON SALE NOW!

Tickets for our shows at the Jazz Bakery in Los Angeles on Friday August 22 and Saturday, August 23 are on sale online at:
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/39449/
You can also order tickets by phone:310-271-9039). There will be two shows nightly: 8 PM & 9:30 PM. Tickets: $25 ($13 for students 21 and under).

NEXT PERFORMANCES: 8/14, 822, 8/23 AND 8/29.

1) On Thursday, August 14, at 8:00 PM. we will be at Soho, in Santa Barbara. Soho Music Club is located at 1221 State Street, Suite 205, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. For reservations:805-962-7776. www.sohosb.com
2) On Friday, August 22 and Saturday, August 23, we will be performing at the Jazz Bakery in Los Angeles, the premier Jazz venue in Southern California ( 3233 HELMS AVE, Los Angeles, CA 90034. Phone:310-271-9039). There will be two shows nightly: 8 PM & 9:30 PM. Tickets: $25 ($13 for students 21 and under).
3) On Friday, August 29, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, we'll be playing at the Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Gardens, as part of the Courthouse Jazz Series. Please, check in later on for more info on those performances, and on other upcoming shows. Cheers! Luis.

LACMA WAS GREAT!

1) Panamanian artist and old friend(we go back 30 plus years) Rogelio Mitchel, LACMA's head of Music Program Mitch Glickman and myself.
2) Eddie and the crew, the most important friends an artist have during a performance,
3) Backstage waiting to go on.
4) performing.

LACMA was wonderful. a beautiful setting, on a beautiful CA summer day, with a great crowd!

TODAY AT 5:00 PM, LIVE AT LACMA

Today, Saturday, June 28, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, we will be performing at LACMA( Los Angeles County Art Museum). The concert will take place at the Dorothy Collins Brown Amphitheater at LACMA, in Hancock Park north of the Hammer Building.
It is a free concert.

The band:
Jonathan Dane: Trumpet
Brad Dutz: Marimba and hand percussion
Tom Etchart: Bass
George Friedenthal: Piano
Luis Muñoz: drums and percussion
Narciso Sotomayor: Guitar

For more information call LACMA's Music Department at 323 857-6115.

A MASTERPIECE! MILTON AND WAYNE!

I just finished listening for the first time in many years,to a masterpiece, "Native Dancer", the incredible collaboration between two masters of contemporary music: Brazilian singer/songwriter Milton Nascimento and probably the best Jazz composer/saxophonist alive today, Wayne Shorter, both performing at their very best. After more than 30 years the music sounds as fresh as if it had been recorded yesterday. Sonically, conceptually and compositionally, it does not get any better than this. Herbie Hancock, Airto, David Amaro and Wagner Tizo also participate. One of my "25 Best Recordings " of all time.

RECOMMENDATION: ROBERT PLANT & ALLISON KRAUSS

This Wednesday, June 25, I will be going to the Santa Barbara County Bowl to hear two great artists live in concert: Robert Plant and Allison Krauss. If you haven't heard their collaborative CD, go get it. Highly recommended! L.

SUMMER PERFORMANCES!

Here is a list of some of the shows we'll be doing this summer in California:
1) On Saturday, June 28, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, we will be performing at LACMA( Los Angeles County Art Museum). The concert will take place at the Dorothy Collins Brown Amphitheater at LACMA, in Hancock Park north of the Hammer Building.
It is a free concert. For more infoirmation call LACMA's Music Department at 323 857-6115.
2) On Thursday, August 14, at 8:00 PM. we will be at Soho, in Santa Barbara. Soho Music Club is located at 1221 State Street, Suite 205, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. For reservations:805-962-7776. www.sohosb.com
3) On Friday, August 22 and Saturday, August 23, we will be performing at the Jazz Bakery in Los Angeles, the premier Jazz venue in Southern California ( 3233 HELMS AVE, Los Angeles, CA 90034. Phone:310-271-9039). There will be two shows nightly: 8 PM & 9:30 PM. Tickets: $25 ($13 for students 21 and under).
4) On Friday, August 29, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, we'll be playing at the Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Gardens, as part of the Courthouse Jazz Series. The open venue and free admission will provide the entire community an opportunity to enjoy Santa Barbara’s beautiful surroundings while listening to great music and supporting Santa Barbara’s vital non-profit’s and charities. Please, check in later on for more info on those performances, and on other upcoming shows. Cheers! Luis.

My buddy "Tux" and myself playing...

Introducing my new buddy "tux", who keeps me company at all times while trying to finish composing the music for my next CD. The background beat is a collaboration with my song Adam, done with his MPC. Tux got a little scared at the end...:)

OJOS!

NEW FAMILY MEMBER!

This is our new family member. No name yet (any ideas?), but we are enjoying him very much! Welcome little guy!!!!

LUIS MUNOZ LIVE AT LACMA / FREE CONCERT ON 6/28 AT 5:00 PM

This coming month, on Saturday, June 28, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, we will be performing at the Los Angeles County Art Museum, as part of the "Latin Sounds" series sponsored by LACMA's Department of Music Programs. The concert will take place at the Dorothy Collins Brown Amphitheater at LACMA, in Hancock Park north of the Hammer Building.
It is a free concert. For more infoirmation call LACMA's Music Department at 323 857-6115, or you can email me at : contact@luismunoz.net Hope you can join us! Luis

PS, Also, don't forget our shows at the Jazz Bakery in Los Angeles on August 22 and 23, 8:00 and 9:30 PM shows. L.

RECOMMENDED READING!

Books I am reading these days:

1) "Palestine, Peace not Apartheid" by Jimmy Carter
2) "Effortless Mastery" by Kenny Werner
3) "Creating True Peace" by Thich Nhat Hanh
4) "Love in the Time of Cholera" by Gabriel García Márquez. Set in the steamy backwater of coastal Colombia of a century ago. 51 years, 9 months, 4 days and 622 affairs later, Florentino Ariza declares once again, his love for Fermina Daza...
5) "Middlesex" by Jeffrey Eugenides, a story that manages to be both,illuminating and transcendent.

EL OSO- SHORT STORY

Era una mañana como tantas. El grito de mi madre diciéndome que mi desayuno estaba enfriándose en la mesa del comedor me hizo despertar...
TO READ MORE:
http://luisbook.blogspot.com/2008/05/el-oso-short-story.html/

TOMORROW, WEDNESDAY, LIVE IN VENTURA, CA!

This Wednesday, April 30th, at 7:30 PM (and every last Wednesday of every month) we will be performing at Bombay Grill in Ventura, CA ( 143 S California St Ventura, CA 93001-2803 Phone: (805) 643-4404), as part of their Wednesdays Jazz series. This month the band will consist of:
Jonathan Dane: Trumpet
Brad Dutz: Marimba
Tom Etchart: Bass
George Friedenthal: Piano
Narciso Sotomayor: Guitar
Lorenzo Martinez: Percussion

Hope to see you! Luis.

IF YOU MISSED IT YOU CAN LISTEN HERE!

In case you missed my internet radio interview yesterday with Worldstreams Radio, you can listen to it in its entirety at:
http://www.worldstreams.org/past10.html/

TODAY (4/16/08), LIVE INTERNET RADIO INTERVIEW

Today, April 16th, at 7:00PM (10:00 PM Eastern Time), I will be doing a live radio interview on the internet, via WorldStreams Radio. WorldStreams Radio is a socially conscious non-profit resource for the arts, world politics, culture and social issues around the globe. It is the number one World Fusion music station on Live365.com
Please, join me!
TO LISTEN: http://www.live365.com/stations/zweland/
OR: http://www.worldstreams.org/

THIS SUMMER, LIVE AT THE JAZZ BAKERY IN LA!

This summer, on Friday, August 22 and Saturday, August 23, we will be performing at the Jazz Bakery in Los Angeles, the premier Jazz venue in Southern California ( 3233 HELMS AVE, Los Angeles, CA 90034. Phone:310-271-9039). There will be two shows nightly: 8 PM & 9:30 PM. Tickets: $25 ($13 for students 21 and under). Please, check in later on for more info on those two nights, and on other upcoming performances. Cheers! Luis.

LAST WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, LIVE AT BOMBAY

On the last Wednesday of every month, starting on April 30th, we will be performing at Bombay Grill in Ventura, CA ( 143 S California St Ventura, CA 93001-2803 Phone: (805) 643-4404), as part of their Wednesdays Jazz series. This month the band will consist of:
Jonathan Dane: Trumpet
Brad Dutz: Marimba
Tom Etchart: Bass
George Friedenthal: Piano
Narciso Sotomayor: Guitar
Kevin Winard: Percussion (Kevin will be home a few days from his road gig with Steve Tyrrell, and will be joining us).

Hope to see you! Luis.

VIEW FROM THE STAGE!

LIVE INTERVIEW ON WORLDSTREAMS RADIO: 4/16/08

On Wednesday , April 16th, at 7:00PM (10:00 PM Eastern Time), I will be doing a live radio interview on the internet, via WorldStreams Radio. WorldStreams Radio is a socially conscious non-profit resource for the arts, world politics, culture and social issues around the globe. It is the number one World Fusion music station on Live365.com
Please, join me!
TO LISTEN: http://www.live365.com/stations/zweland/
OR: http://www.worldstreams.org/

"EL FLAUTISTA"/RECUERDOS.

I took this picture in late 1969, in the Avenida Central, San José, Costa Rica. This gentleman is one of the many characters I used to spend time with in the city. He was full of great stories and very inspirational. Two years later, I ended up studying flute at the Music Conservatory of the National University. The Conservatory at the time was located in a beautiful old building on the south corner of the "Morazán" Park, downtown. Oh my, how things change! These days, that building is home to "Key Largo", one of the more popular whore houses in San José, but that is another story...

NEXT PERFORMANCE: THIS WEDNESDAY 3/26 IN VENTURA, CA.

Our next performance will be this coming Wednesday, March 26, at 7:30 PM, at Bombay Grill in Ventura, CA ( 143 S California St Ventura, CA 93001-2803 Phone: (805) 643-4404), as part of their Wednesdays Jazz series. The band will consist of:
Jonathan Dane: Trumpet
Brad Dutz: Marimba
Tom Etchart: Bass
George Friedenthal: Piano
Lorenzo Martínez: Percussion
Narciso Sotomayor: Guitar

Hope to see you there! Luis.

LAST CONCERT IMAGES

Photos from our latest concert at the Unitarian Society in Santa Barbara, CA. As always, for larger photos, click on each image.

"SONGS OF PEACE & TRANSFORMATION" LIVE

"Songs of Peace & Transformation" concert at the Unitarian Society, Santa Barbara, CA, March 16, 2008.(Click on the image, for a larger photo).

"OF SOUL AND SHADOW" T-SHIRTS FOR SALE

"Of Soul and Shadow" T-Shirts are for sale at:
http://luismunoz.net/merchandise.html
Thanks to our beautiful model and dear friend (and Honorary Luis Muñoz's Fan Club President María Guadalupe Cruz Vasquez).

NEXT PERFORMANCE:3/26 IN VENTURA, CA.

We had a wonderful concert last Sunday afternoon at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara. I will be posting some photos of the show tomorrow night. Meanwhile, our next performance will be on Wednesday, March 26, at 7:30 PM, at Bombay Grill in Ventura, CA ( 143 S California St Ventura, CA 93001-2803 Phone: (805) 643-4404), as part of their Wednesdays Jazz series. The band will consist of:
Jonathan Dane: Trumpet
Brad Dutz: Marimba
Tom Etchart: Bass
George Friedenthal: Piano
Lorenzo Martínez: Percussion
Narciso Sotomayor: Guitar

Hope to see you there! Luis.

IN CONCERT, THIS COMING SUNDAY MARCH 16th!

This coming Sunday, March 16, at 3:00 PM, I will be performing at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara ( 1535 Santa Barbara St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 965-4583 ), along with:
Jonathan Dane: Trumpet
Brad Dutz: Marimba
Tom Etchart: Bass
George Friedenthal: Piano
Lorenzo Martínez: Percussion
Narciso Sotomayor: Guitar

We will be playing a series of quiet, introspective compositions which we've called "Songs of Peace and Transformation". It will be a very intimate, all acoustic performance, in this beautiful venue. Please join us!

THE JUGGLER/ EL TORO AMARILLO

SELF PORTRAITS: My present everyday life, either as a juggler or as a bullfighter of sorts...

UDU

NEXT PERFORMANCES: 3/16 AND 3/26

On Sunday, March 16, at 3:00 PM, we will be performing at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara ( 1535 Santa Barbara St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 965-4583 ). On Wednesday, March 26, at 7:30 PM, we will be performing in Ventura at Bombay Grill ( 143 S California St Ventura, CA 93001-2803 Phone: (805) 643-4404). We will be posting more information about both shows in the upcoming days. Hope to see you!

ABEJONES/A SHORT STORY

"Todos morimos, pero no todos vivimos..."

Dos meses después de haber regresado de México, nos mudamos al barrio Escalante.

Anteriormente el barrio Escalante había sido un potrero lleno de vacas coloradas, rodeado por un cafetal de unas sesenta manzanas de extensión. A un lado del potrero, al que llamaban"Texas", había un ojo de agua potable donde se reunía todo el vecindario en época de sequía; al otro lado corría el río Torres, un hilo de agua cristalina que al pasar junto a la facultad de química de la Universidad Nacional, se convertía en un riachuelo espumoso, turbio y putrefacto...
Read more

ALISON KRAUSS/A BEAUTIFUL VOICE FROM A BEAUTIFUL SINGER!

PAT RAFTERY

"The Yellow Box" and "Sunrise", two paintings by my old friend Pat Raftery (Rojo), that now hang in my living room. For more info about his work, visit him at: http://patraftery.net/

JAZZTIMES MAGAZINE REVIEWS "OF SOUL AND SHADOW"

"Of Soul and Shadow" continues gathering great reviews from the international press. This time,Forrest Dylan Bryant of JazzTimes Magazine (March 2008 issue) writes: "Costa Rican keyboardist-percussionist Muñoz has painted a kaleidoscopic portrait of his homeland, combining several strains of Jazz performance into a folkloric framework. A large, rotating cast of musicians evoke lush rainforest, busy urban centers, relaxed country life or scenes of nostalgic romance with ease... Tunes like the dance machine "La Verdad", or the too-short "Luz del Sur" areterrific...Read more

WE WELCOME BRAD DUTZ TO THE BAND!

Marimba player and overall percussionist extraordinaire Brad Dutz is the new official member of the band and we welcome him. Brad is a veteran of the LA studio scene( you can hear his work on movies like "Ocean's Eleven", "Syriana" and "Hidalgo", or TV shows like "King of the Hill" and "Family guy", and on recordings by Vinnie Golia, Ricky Lee Jones, Willie Nelson or Alanis Morrissette among many). We are very happy to have him around. Luis.

CUESTA COLLEGE CONCERT 2/1/08

WE HAD A WONDERFUL TIME LAST NIGHT IN SAN LUIS OBISPO. THANKS TO RON McCARLEY FOR INVITING US TO PERFORM AT CUESTA COLLEGE!

THIS FRIDAY FEBRUARY 1ST, LIVE IN CONCERT

This coming Friday, February 1st, at 7:30 PM I will be performing at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo, in the Student Conference Center (Room 5400).
Cuesta College San Luis Obispo Campus
Hwy 1 San Luis Obispo, Ca 93403-8106
(805) 546-3100
THE BAND:
Jonathan Dane: Trumpet
Tom Etchart: Bass
George Friedenthal: Keyboards
Luis Muñoz: drums
Jon Nathan: Marimba
Narciso Sotomayor: Guitars
Kevin Winard: Percussion

RECENT "OF SOUL AND SHADOW" REVIEWS.

"Of Soul and Shadow" is a beautiful and passionate recording" (Latin Jazz Network )

"Top Five Latin, Blues and Beyond CDs of 2007" ( Jazzhouse.org )

" Shockingly well fused and cohesive! Luis Muñoz has done it again!" (Santa Barbara Independent)

"This recommended album rocks hard while highlighting the cultural background that makes Latin Jazz the emotional tool that has captured our heart and soul. This one brings out the goose bumps!"
( Jim Santella/ LA Jazz Scene )

"With this collection, Luis Munoz takes the concept of eclecticism to a whole new and exciting level."
( Jonathan Widran, Allmusic.com )

"Delightful release, highly recommended!"
( Jazzreview.com )

"Latin Jazz at its best! Four Stars (****)"
( EJazznews )

"A unique hybrid that fuses some of the best elements of a range of Latin American musical styles, to the best elements of jazz instrumental soloing".
( Jazz Improv Magazine )

"LATIN JAZZ NETWORK" INTERVIEWS LUIS MUNOZ

"Of Soul and Shadow" is a beautiful, passionate recording in which the fusion of the most diverse musical elements is more evident than in previous releases. Luis continues to grow in talent and maturity. His music has a distinctive sensibility rooted in ancient Pan-American rhythms, but enriched with modern, contemporary expressions.
TO READ THE ENTIRE REVIEW AND INTERVIEW, VISIT:
http://www.latinjazznet.com/interviews/luis_munoz/index.htm/

TWO MUSIC RECOMMENDATIONS

Two wonderful CDs highly recommended: A Greatest Hits collection by Soul/R & B singer Donny Hathaway ( including some of his work with Roberta Flack), and "Ojos Negros", by Argentinian bandoneon player Dino Saluzzi in collaboration with cellist Anja Lechner ( from the the Munich-based Rosamunde Quartett ).

"Of Soul and Shadow" makes it into top 5 Latin Jazz CDs of 2007

Jazz critic and author W. Royal Stokes(Village Voice, Jazzhouse.org) has chosen "Of Soul and Shadow" among his "Top Five Latin, Blues and Beyond CDs of 2007". To see the full list, visit:
http://www.jazzhouse.org/

NEXT PERFORMANCE: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1ST, CUESTA COLLEGE, SLO.

ON Friday, February 1st, at 7:30 PM we will be performing at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo, in the Student Conference Center (Room 5400). We may be also offering a clinic earlier that same afternoon. Please, check in with us later on for additional info, or contact the college.
Cuesta College San Luis Obispo Campus
Hwy 1 San Luis Obispo, Ca 93403-8106
(805) 546-3100

SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT REVIEWS "OF SOUL AND SHADOW"

Luis Muñoz has done it again! Shockingly well fused and cohesive!
Read full review: http://independent.com/news/2007/dec/06/luis-muoz/

Santa Barbara Magazine/December 07

Read about "Of Soul and Shadow" on this month's issue of Santa Barbara Magazine

EL RELOJ

Costa Rica/1973

In my room in San José, Costa Rica, October, 1973. Jamming with my friend William Salas, who after almost 35 years, contacted me this morning. Notice the poster collection on the wall: Pink Floyd, Zappa, Miles...

JAZZ IMPROV NY MAGAZINE REVIEWS "OF SOUL AND SHADOW" THIS MONTH

Curtis Davenport, of Jazz Improv NY Magazine reviews "Of Soul and Shadow" in this month's issue: "Munoz has created a unique hybrid that fuses some of the best elements of a range of Latin American musical styles, to the best elements of jazz instrumental soloing." Read more

Stravinsky Conducts Firebird/ GENIUS AT WORK!!

DUSTY, WHITE SOUL!!

YOUNG CUBAN VIRTUOSO!

ANOTHER GREAT REVIEW! LA JAZZ SCENE 11/07

LUIS MUNOZ/OF SOUL AND SHADOW (Pelín Music)

Based in Santa Barbara, composer and multi-instrumentalist Luis Muñoz combines the best of heart-rending Latin Jazz with the soul of Central America. He grew up in Costa Rica, attended the University of Costa Rica and the nation's National Music Conservatory; then moved to the U.S. in 1974. At UC Santa Barbara, he earned his degree in Music Composition and has written prolifically since then. His latest album explores the idioms of Costa Rican folklore, classical music and Jazz through 10 originals that swing hard or simmer gracefully: sometimes both.

Saxophonists David Binney and Tom Buckner give Muñoz the exciting sound that he wants, as his ensembles get into a groove. When trombonist Ira Nepus steps into the spotlight on "La Semilla", the heat is on. He is complemented by high note trumpeter Adolfo Acosta, as a wide array of percussion keeps the motion flowing strong. This one brings out the goose bumps! Then, Muñoz contrasts his program with Ron Kalina's soulful harmonica on "Al Silencio", which mourns confortingly to nurse the evening's woes away. The composer's drum set ties the unit together seamlessly, as blues turns into a hopeful dawn with all its positive magic.

Elsewhere, the composer brings us impressions of the tradition that has built Central America for hundreds of years. Vocals by Andy Zúñiga and more harmonica, saxophone and trumpet spotlights give the session personality. On flute, Muñoz carries a deep, heartfelt charm; on piano, he delivers with sensitivity. This recommended album rocks hard while highlighting the cultural background that makes Latin Jazz the emotional tool that has captured our heart and soul.

Jim Santella/ LA Jazz Scene

NEW REVIEW/"OF SOUL AND SHADOW": HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Read more on what "Jazzreview.com" said today about "Of Soul and Shadow":
http://www.jazzreview.com/cd/review-19286.html

FOUR STARS/ EJAZZNEWS REVIEW

Today, John Gilbert of Ejazznews gave "Of Soul and Shadow" Four Stars ( ****): " Latin jazz at it's best".

MUSIC AVAILABLE AT ITUNES

Hello again
FYI: My music is now available for digital downloading at itunes. Regards! Luis

Of Soul and Shadow CD: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?playListId=266456708
Vida CD: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?playListId=266456727
Compassion CD: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?playListId=266456710
The Fruit of Eden CD: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?playListId=266456724

SANTA BARBARA JAZZ FESTIVAL 10/13/07

SANTA BARBARA JAZZ FESTIVAL 10/13/07

ENTIRE CATALOG AVAILABLE FOR DIGITAL DOWNLOAD AT CDBABY.COM

Hello everyone,
I am very happy to announce the availability of my entire catalog for digital downloading at cdbaby.com. The following week the music will be available everywhere else, including itunes. This are the links for each of my 4 CDs at cdbaby.com. Regards! Luis.
http://cdbaby.com/cd/luismunoz2
http://cdbaby.com/cd/luismunoz5
http://cdbaby.com/cd/luismunoz3
http://cdbaby.com/cd/luismunoz4

LIVE IN CONCERT THIS SATURDAY!!

This coming Saturday, October 13th, at 3:30 PM, we will be performing live at the Santa Barbara Festival of Art. There will be music, art, food and wine during the entire weekend. Hope to see you there! Luis.

SLY AND THE FAMILY STONE LIVE! WHAT A TREAT!!!!

"VIDA" INCLUDED INTO YET ANOTHER TOP TEN LIST OF 2006

Thanks to Michael Townsend of Quimper Sound in Port Townsed, WA, for including "VIDA" into his Top Ten Spins list of 2006, joining "jazzreview.com", "latinjazznetwork" and five other review sources in doing so. It is always nice to find out that people appreciate your music THAT much!
www.quimpersound.com/reviews/revhome.html#top1006m

SOUNDCHECK AT "THE VIC" IN SANTA MONICA. 9/27/07

We had a wonderful time last Thursday at this very intimate Jazz club in Santa Monica, CA. Great audience and great acoustics. Hard to ask for much more. We shall return... Luis.

Ejazznews reviews "Of Soul and Shadow"

CD Reviews: CD Review/Luis Munoz/Of Soul & ShadOw/PEL2007
Posted by: editoron Saturday, September 22, 2007 - 09:01 AM

I've been lucky enough to review several of latino piano specialist Luis Munoz's CD projects over the years. This current project shows Luis's bent on creating latin jazz that is both absorbing & engaging for his listenership. Luis's music is always alive & fresh & this spate of originals is a prime example of both his delicate quality with stylistic precision. Munoz's music offers us a thoughtful combination of interesting musical ideas & a satisfying aesthetic as well. Luis's compositional talents are extraordinarily wide with a sensitivity & phraseology that can quiet one's sensibilites. Kudos then to this wonderful latino pianist-composer of song as he delivers his songs to discriminating & accepting ears..........OURS, in an apparent, effortless fashion.

George W. Carroll
EJAZZNEWS.COM

http://www.ejazznews.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=8599

IN CONCERT!

Photo: Holly Christopher

KPFK RADIO INTERVIEW IN LOS ANGELES 9/22/07

With Kathy Díaz and Pía Franco of "Canto Tropical" at KPFK Los Angeles. We missed you Hector!

THIS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, AT 8:00 PM KPFK INTERVIEW

This Saturday, September 22nd, at 8:00 PM, I will be interviewed once again at KPFK, 90.7 Los Angeles, 98.7 Santa Barbara. This time I will be in the program "Canto Tropical con Hector Resendez" promoting our upcoming concert at the "Vic for Jazz' In Santa Monica, CA on September 27th. Hope you can listen. Luis.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

On Saturday, October 13th, at 3:30 PM, I will be performing at the Santa Barbara Festival of Arts in CA. Joining me will be Jonathan Dane: Trumpet, Tom Etchart: Bass, George Friedenthal: Keyboards, Jon Nathan: Marimba, Narciso Sotomayor: Guitar and Kevin Winard: percussion. Hope to see you there! And don't forget our next performance, on Thurday, September 27th at the Vic For Jazz in Santa Monica, CA. 8:00 and 10:00 PM shows. Luis.

ADAM'S DREAM/VIDEO

A collage of photos, some of my drawings and computer animation (by Kino Gil), for "Adam's Dream, a track from my new CD "Of Soul and Shadow". Dedicated to my son Adam, this recording feautures Ramses Araya on Bata Drums, Tom Buckner on Soprano Sax, Tom Etchart on Fretless Bass, George Friedenthal on Synth, Narciso Sotomayor on Electric Guitar and myself on Djembe, Piano and Percussion. Enjoy! Luis,

LIVE AT SOHO, 9/6/07

THIS THURSDAY 9/6/07 AT 8:30 PM LIVE AT SOHO

Please join us this Thursday September 6, at 8:30 PM for the concert celebration of the release of our "Of Soul and Shadow" CD. We will be performing live most of the new music from that CD.
BAND:
Jonathan Dane: Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Tom Etchart: Acoustic and Electric Bass
George Friedentahl: Piano, Keyboards
Luis Muñoz: Drums, Percussion
John Nathan: Marimba. Percussion
Narciso Sotomayor: Acoustic, Electric Guitar
Kevin Winard: Percussion

Hope to see you there! Luis.

NELSON, LUIS AND RAUL/KCLU-8/30/07

At KCLU,88.3 FM Ventura County, CA. surrounded by two of the greatest (and nicest) radio personalities in the world of Latin Jazz: Nelson Rodríguez and Raul Rico Jr.

ARENAL VOLCANO/COSTA RICA

RADIO INTERVIEW 8/24/07

With Marta Elia y Marcello Pedrolo of "Mirando al Sur" radio program, on KCBX, 90.1 San Luis Obispo, CA.