Cuban Dance Co. MALPASO @ Joyce, HOT & not

Malpaso Dance Co. is founded by Cuban dancer/choreographer Osnel Delgado and is based in Havana. The contemporary dance co. works with Int'l choreographers.  Delgado's piece DESPEDIDA/FAREWELL ('15) credits the piece as a collaborative work with his dancers.  Original Afro Latin Jazz music for the stirring piece is by Arturo O'Farrill & was performed live with his ensemble of 8 musicians. The 1st piece on the program was UNDER FIRE ('15) by Amer. choreographer Trey McIntyre.  Taped music by singer Grandma Kelsey was the undercurrent throughout the piece.  The score never seem to vary, nor did the amber hued lighting resulting in a repetitive & tiresome aesthetic.  The dancers were all highly skilled which put some spark into the piece.  UNDER FIRE was likeable but not remarkable.  Delgado's DESPEDIDA was something altogether different & extraordinary.  The musicial ensemble added a very jazzy, Latin beat & the dancers used the composition for an arousing effect. The varied musical movements sizzled except for the 1st which had an atonal pounding on the piano that proved distracting.  The dancers were often in prone positions.  I was surprised with their unexpected juxtapositions.  I was especially taken when the dancers on the floor moved fluidly, emulating the sensations of passing through water.  This piece far outshined UNDER FIRE.  For those in the audience who were not swayed by the syncopation of the music or the sensuality of the dancers, you need to register your pulse.