Reginald Policard & Richard Bona, Encuentro Theme Review

Rhythmic Embrace: ‘Encuentro Theme’ – A Melodic Manifesto of Unity and Joyous Rhythms by Reginald Policard & Richard Bona

An island’s heartbeat, a melody of unity, a cross-cultural opus – “Encuentro Theme” is all these and more. It’s the rhythmic embrace of musical legends Reginald Policard and Grammy-Award-Winning bassist Richard Bona, breathing life into the Encuentro label. Together, their combined talents create an enchanting musical statement, translating the universal message of harmonious coexistence into the language of sound.

The sensual percussion and slinky bassline usher you into a world that resonates with the traditions and flavors of the Caribbean. As a follow-up to the successful single “Melancolia,” this theme embarks on a profound journey, capturing the essence of Encuentro—a musical meeting awash in the romantic and alluring rhythms of Latin America, the Caribbean, and the vibrant streets of Miami. Policard’s touch and vision illuminate the song with vivid sonic colors, making his writing a standout feature.

In addition to Bona and Policard, “Encuentro Theme” weaves in the dazzling artistry of Jean Caze on trumpet, Ludwig Alfonso’s rhythmic drums, Teddy Mulet’s versatile trumpet and trombone, David Fernandez’s soulful saxophone, Hector Quintana’s expressive guitar, Sammy Figueroa’s enchanting percussion, and Edwin Bonilla’s invigorating congas and timbales. This ensemble’s unique voices converge into a mosaic, painting a rich and diverse world, a musical collaboration transcending geography and genre.

“Encuentro Theme” teases the senses with excellent horn writing that spices the song’s development, while Bona’s soft, wordless vocals float above a rhythmic bed of percussion and drums. Hector Quintana’s guitar tone and passionate playing are outstanding, complemented by Jean Caze’s vibrant trumpet tones. The standout moment? Policard’s piano solo is filled with the fire of salsa and the sophistication of jazz.

“Encuentro Theme” is more than a single song; it’s a manifesto of the romantic rhythms of Latin America. A glimpse into the future of the Encuentro label, it shines as a beacon guiding us toward a place where borders blur and souls dance to a rhythm that recognizes no boundaries. In its elegant simplicity, this theme celebrates humanity’s kaleidoscope, where differences meld into harmonious soundscapes filled with joyous rhythms.