“South of the Border” Album Review

Album: South of the Border

Artist: Charlie Parker

Year: 1952

Genre: Afro-Cuban Jazz

Grade: A-

After combining jazz with classical on the seminal Charlie Parker with Strings collection, Bird decided to cut a record with Latin big band legends like Machito and Mario Bauzá. And why not? When you’ve already accomplished as much as Parker, when you’ve already revolutionized and changed the trajectory of jazz history for the next century, you have the freedom to dabble in whatever genre mash-up you desire, whether that’s European impressionism or Afro-Cuban rhythmic clave. South of the Border is Bird at his most carefree, performing blistering yet blissful solos over a bevy of fiery beats.

But as with any legendary interpreter — Bing, Sinatra, Ella, you name it — the chosen setting is merely a backdrop for Parker’s instrumental talent to shine through. From “Mango Mangue” to “La Cucaracha” to the 17-minute “Afro-Cuban Jazz Suite,” Bird makes these songs his own. Stylistic experiment, sure, but more than anything, South of the Border is a showcase of how Parker’s instantly recognizable musical personality transcends preconceived boundaries.

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