La Musica de Cuba

COMPAY SEGUNDO - "LO MEJOR DE LA VIDA"

A graduate of the Buena Vista Social Club, Compay Segundo's first solo efforts is the best bet you can make if you're not sure what to buy. From the very first track "El camisón de Pepa," you're in the hands of a crafty, world class singer and performer. No rumbas or charangas, but a classy, lyrical and sophisticated effort, with very tasty guitar work by Benito Juarez. Don't try to take this away from me.

LOS ZAFIROS - LOS ZAFIROS STORY

This one I remember from when I was a boy in Cuba. Some have referred to Los Zafiros as "Cuban De-wop," and I can see the similarities. The five members of the band provide a variety of vocalizations that, combined with the tropical rhythms, makes for an energetic and unusual experience. Thumbs way up.

MONGO SANTAMARIA - AFRO-AMERICAN LATIN

A classic. Legend reveals that this was originally turned down by the record companies in 1969 as un-releasable because, believe it or not, it was too… "African." At that time, legend tells, the typical jazz/salsa record-buyer/concertgoer was "not ready" for such a passionate musical display. I think they were wrong. I also think this is Mongo's masterpiece. The CD hasn't been off my player's tray since I got it over six months ago (and I only have a 3-CD tray) which may be the biggest compliment I can bestow this great work.

CHUCHO VALDÉZ - BRIYUMBA PALO CONGO (RELIGION OF THE CONGO)

What Valdéz does to Gershwin on the Piano is… delicioso! Three jazz standards pass through the Valdéz filter and what comes out we should be grateful for. A delicate version of "Embraceable You," and a Cubanized "Rhapsody in Blue" pay tribute to Gershwin, and an up-tempo version of "Caravan" does the same for Ellington. And then there's everything else included here! Chucho is one of the leading jazz pianists around. This music has been referred to as Cuban Jazz. So be it.

MELLOW MAN ACE - From The Darkness Into Light

I prefer the old nasty stuff (que groceria) before Mellow sounded so much like Public Enemy. But still, this collection grows on you.

ELIADES OCHOA & COMPAY SEGUNDO - QUARTETO PATRIA

Bongos and guitars. Two of the stars of the Buena Vista Social Club combine their talents on this 16-track CD, with seven songs by the great Ñico Saquito. Freshly recorded, this will not replace the old stuff, but stands as homage to a great songwriter and a wonderful group of musicians.

Musica 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Home Page | Contents | Galleries | Site Index | Timetables