Vega’s music speaks for itself, staying true to his roots while firmly placing him among today’s jazz greats.
Imagery Records
Donald Vega – Piano, Composition; Lewis Nash – Drums; John Patitucci – Bass; Luisito Quintero – Percussion
Donald Vega’s journey, from his childhood in Nicaragua to his place among jazz’s elite, is pretty amazing. Trained as a classical pianist in his homeland, he fled civil war at age 14 and found refuge in Los Angeles, where his musical talent thrived under the mentorship of greats like drummer Billy Higgins, conguero Francisco Aguabella, and bassists Al McKibbon and John Clayton. Vega became a member of Ron Carter’s Golden Striker Trio, which disbanded following the passing of guitarist Russell Malone in 2023. Vega and Carter, however, continue to perform together as a duo. A professor at The Juilliard School, Vega reflects on his life’s journey with AS I TRAVEL, his fourth album as a bandleader.
Described by Vega as an “American story,” AS I TRAVEL is a deeply personal suite of nine compositions that chronicles his physical and emotional journey, from Nicaragua to Los Angeles, and ultimately to New York. “This album is a celebration of friends, family, and all the experiences and memories that make us who we are,” Vega explains. “I hope listeners feel all those things and bring that level of love and compassion back to their own families and lives.”
The album opens with ‘¡Baila! Dance Like No One’s Watching,’ an exuberant tribute to Vega’s son and to the Nicaraguan spirit. Backed by the lively rhythms of Nash and Quintero, Vega’s piano moves with dynamic precision, capturing the joy and resilience of his homeland. Vega puts it beautifully: “In Nicaragua, there is so much poverty, and yet the people are known for their joy. They take time to celebrate every moment.” This track sets the tone for an album filled with optimism and celebration.
The title track, ‘As I Travel,’ delivers an elegant, laid-back Latin groove, highlighted by Vega’s crisp tone and inquisitive phrasing, with fast, sharp flourishes on the higher notes. His technical mastery is evident across the album, whether he’s navigating intricate passages, playing with tempo, or drawing out subtle nuances from the keys.
Vega’s interaction with bassist John Patitucci on ‘I Know You Can Fly’ is a marvel, with the way they lock in together. Patitucci’s solo flows effortlessly, sounding right at home with Vega’s confident playing. Quintero’s percussion and Nash on drums really help tie the track together, making it one of the highlights of the album.
‘Tomorrow’s,’ a reimagined title track from Vega’s 2008 debut, reflects the hope and optimism that have driven his journey. The group engages in a dynamic exchange of repeated phrases and shifting tempos, with Vega’s piano leading the conversation, even
in his behind-the-beat single-note runs across the keyboard. Nash’s drum solo is a masterclass in subtlety.
‘Isabel, The Enchanting Nature of You’ is a stunning ballad that highlights Vega’s reflective side. Anchored by Patitucci’s resonant bass, it showcases Vega’s emotional depth and versatility.
AS I TRAVEL blends Latin and swing traditions into a rich story about resilience, community, and the human spirit. Vega’s music speaks for itself, staying true to his roots while firmly placing him among today’s jazz greats.
