Shellac Disc / Spain / RE 2023
Machito, born Francisco Raúl Gutiérrez Grillo, was a pioneering Latin jazz musician who helped redefine Afro-Cuban jazz and played a key role in the creation of Cubop and salsa. Raised in Havana by his foster sister, singer Graciela, he later moved to New York in the 1940s. Along with musical director Mario Bauzá, he introduced Cuban rhythms into big band jazz, influencing legends like George Shearing, Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, and Stan Kenton.
His 1959 album With Flute to Boot! featured an impressive lineup, including flutist and composer Herbie Mann, tenor saxophonist Johnny Griffin, and trombonist Curtis Fuller. The combination of a strong brass section, vibrant percussion, and diverse rhythms made it an instant classic.