La Musica de Cuba

BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB

You didn't think I was going to forget this one, did you? What can I say? Before BVSC was released in 1997, the shelves at major music outlets in LA and San Francisco had very little, if any, Cuban music. Just look at them now. I never get tired of this music. Thank you Ry Cooder.

BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB - THE DVD

Suspiciously absent from the documentary by Wim Wenders is the reason for the establishment of the Buena Vista Social club in Havana during the mid-fifties. The club came about so black musicians, banned from the top-level clubs, could have a place to work. Why would they fail to mention this? No matter, this is a very entertaining package, with audio commentary with the director and a great soundtrack.

DESI ARNAZ - 1937-47

Before they called him Cuban Pete, this is what Desi Arnaz was doing in clubs on the U.S. East Coast. Desi introduced the conga to American audiences and tried to popularize the Cuban sound, and while this is definitely not everyone's cup of tea, I occasionally experience a musical itch that only this collection can scratch.

"Echa un pie," Desi's own composition, gets the program started, picking up various standards along the way and passing them through the Desi Arnaz filter, including "Tabu" and "Siboney" by (Lecuona) "Cachita," and many others.

ÑICO SAQUITO - "GOOD-BYE MR. CAT"

The legendary singer/song-writer Ñico Saquito in his last recorded performance in Santiago de Cuba, in 1982. There's something universally powerful about these songs and Saquito's performance that appeals to rockers and salsa fans alike.

These songs stay with you long after you've heard them. "Meneame La Cuna, Ramon" has a simple haunting rhythm, and the intimate "A Orillas del Cauto" breaks down your musical defenses and prepares you for the crafty, funny and disarming songs that make up this collection. Two thumbs up for Ñico Saquito!

P18 - "URBAN CUBAN"

Modern, rocking, abstract, hip… good for getting me started on Saturday mornings when I've slept too much. This is techno-pop house music a-la-Cubana!

ORQUESTA ARAGON - "THE HEART OF HAVANA, VOL. 1 & 2"

One of my mom's favorite bands of all time. This two-volume collection features wonderful recordings from the mid to late 50's-very danceable.

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