Mambo Merengue provides an introduction to the world of jazz - its rhythms, harmony and melodic shapes. The pieces demonstrate a variety of jazz styles; latin, blues, bebop, modal, swing and modern. 'Mambo' is believed to be a Haitian Creole word literally meaning 'to talk'. Now 'mambo' is a type of dance derived from the Cuban rumba. Consequently the word combines two of the most appealing aspects of jazz; musical conversation and physical movement.