Favorite Recordings reissues rare 1981 jazz-funk album ‘Vegas’ from Venezuelan band Esperanto

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Favorite Recordings reissues rare 1981 jazz-funk album ‘Vegas’ from Venezuelan band Esperanto

Following up on last year’s reissue of Esperanto’s rare 1980 jazz-funk self-titled masterpiece, French label Favorite Recordings has recently re-released the second LP from the Venezuelan group, titled Vegas.

As the title and album artwork suggests, this highly sought-after recording was inspired by Las Vegas following a visit from bandleader Jorge Aguilar and drummer Pablo Matarazzo following a few concert dates in Los Angeles. Fully embracing the flashing lights and vivid colors of Vegas, the 8-track recording features a nice blend of jazz-funk/fusion grooves mixed with a more disco, boogie, and smooth West Coast AOR vibe.

The album was recorded in both Los Angeles and Venezuela’s capital city Caracas, and features musicians from both regions including notable LA session players Kenny More and James Gadson.

Overall, Vegas is a superb follow-up to the group’s debut, in which Aguilar and crew find themselves expanding their sound into new areas musically. Thanks to Favorite Recordings, it’s great to see that both of Esperanto’s albums have now been made more available for new generations of listeners and collectors to enjoy.