I don't know Jim, there may be an essay online somewhere, but I'm not at all sure it would better describe the music than your post did! You've led me to a lot of these recordings, and they're wonderful: there's just something about this music that has that exuberant drive that much of my favorite American jazz does, and that lifts your spirits and sustains your positive moods.
I really like the Sambalanca Trio, the Tamba Trio, the Zimbo Trio. . . well there are many great groups to savor. I love the piano trios, and I also really like the larger ensembles athat are arranged by Deodato et al.
Dusty Groove is THE place! Lots of my dollars go to that place. . . .