Although originally from Cuba, pianist Ramón Valle has lived in the Netherlands for over fifteen years now. During that period he has performed at the festival several times. At the 2003 edition, he shared the stage with top-of-the-bill trumpeter Roy Hargrove. It's clear Valle has found his home here, and his latest project, Flashes From Holland (2011) can rightly be called an ode to his new homeland. For this musical journey, the 47-year-old pianist acquired the help of guitarist Jesse van Ruller, who accompanies Valle's trio both on the album and during the concerts. With Flashes From Holland the Cuban demonstrates his diversity by using classical, Latin and rock elements, alongside jazz music. This leads to subtle, melodic but often explosive compositions, according to the pianist. We have never "heard" our country described in such a beautiful way.
