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The Descarga Review • October 08, 2007 Brought to you by Descarga.com The world's best Latin music Big Savings on Select Universal Catalog Titles! Ends October 17th |
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Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 JOSÉ ALBERTO "EL CANARIO"On Time RMM/Universal Originally released: 1995 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: JOSÉ ALBERTO "EL CANARIO"Oro Salsero - 2 CD Set Universal Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: JOSÉ ALBERTO "EL CANARIO"Pura Salsa: A Ritmo De José Alberto "El Canario" Universal/RMM Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Part of a fine series of 20 different CDs that highlight the hits of legendary salsa singers and bandleaders. Purchase this one alone, or purchase the entire set of 20 CDs at a discount HERE! (BP) JOSÉ ALBERTO "EL CANARIO"Pura Salsa: A Ritmo De José Alberto "El Canario" - Live Universal/RMM Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Nice compilation of live performances by the popular salsa singer. (BP) JOSÉ ALBERTO "EL CANARIO"The Best... Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: JOSÉ ALBERTO "EL CANARIO"Then And Now Universal Originally released: 2004 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Featuring two brand new slammin' dance tracks: "Mueve Tu Cintura" and "Hay Amores." The remaining tracks are digitally remastered, previously released songs from 1983 through 2003. A great El Canario sampler, and leaves this listener wanting more. A new CD, José? Recommended. (BP) EDESIO ALEJANDROCalentando La Ilusión - Edesio Alejandro Presenta A La Orquesta Mágica De La Habana Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: Don't know if it's a joke or not, but on my computer, the name of the record comes up not just as Calentando la Ilusion, but also as Cuba Coup. HmmŠ maybe that's the illusion. Anyway, on to less overtly political topics. The music here is pretty amazing, urban, sophisticated, and old-fashioned, with some elderly singers working through cha chas, and sones, touched by the trova; Cachaito's on bass, and there's a guitar, tres and percussion. The pieces are all by Alejandro - though they quote other tunes - along with some other writers. It's often beautiful, and quite pure in its own way. One song, "Ay Coño," bemoans the fact that things are getting worse and worse in the singer's neighborhood (see my first sentence). "Habana" opens with a rumba, and it's an ode to the city, sung with real sadness. "El Robo del la Embajada Sueca" is almost experimental, with all sorts of voices overlayed, singing the Diana, with the tres changing keys; it's virtually all instrumental. And "Persecusion, Asaltos Y Amores de un Sueco en La Habana" opens with a severely phased tres; it's also instrumental. Weird, and Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) ADALBERTO ALVAREZ Y SU SONJugando Con Candela Havana Caliente/Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 1999 Reissued: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA CUBANA; CUBA EditorsPick: Back in stock! Nice highly anticipated new release by one of our favorite Cuban bandleaders. Adalberto is somewhere between a sonero and a salsero. This is one of his best efforts to date. (BP) ORQUESTA ANACAONATen Sisters Of Rhythm: Film, Images & Music DVD Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2003 Category: DVD; DOCUMENTARY; CUBA EditorsPick: This is a wonderful documentary (two, really) of the infamous a girl Cuban dance band popular since the 1930s. Contains vintage clips, photos and audio as well as recent interviews, in Cuba, with original band members. It is wonderful to see an 80-ish Ondina Castro pick up her trumpet and play with feeling. With special guest Frank Emilio Flynn. Excellent quality, well produced, and highly recommended. (BP) ANGEL Y KHRIZLos MVP's Universal/MVP/Machete Originally released: 2005 Category: POP/OTHER; REGGAETON EditorsPick: Recommended. (Peter Watrous) LOS ANORMALESHector "El Bambino" Presenta Los Anormales Universal Originally released: 2004 Category: POP/OTHER; REGGAETON Original Price: MARC ANTHONYÉxitos Eterno Universal Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: ORQUESTA ARAGÓNLa Historia Continua... Guest Star Cheo Feliciano Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA Original Price: VITIN AVILESMr. Vitin Aviles (Digitally Remastered) Universal/Callejero/Tropical Budda Reissued: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Just in! Never before reissued CD of Mr. Vitin Aviles on Tropical Budda! On this '80s album Aviles covers tracks exclusively by Tite Curet Alonso and Julio Castro. This well-done selection of bolero, salsa, guaguancó and a merengue features heavies like Charlie Palmieri, Tony Cofresi, Tony Barrero, Johnny Rodriguez, Jose Alberto, Ismael Quintana and others. Includes the tracks "Mi Crucigrama," "La Canasta," "Amparame Corazon," "Cimientos" and many more. Arrangements by Ray Santos and Javier Fernandez. Highly Recommended. (BP) MARIO BAUZATanga Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 1992 Reissued: 2004 Category: DANCE TRADITIONS; BIG BAND MAMBO JAZZ EditorsPick: This was the historically important release that brought Mario Bauzá back to the fore. Originally released on Götz Wörner's Messidor label in 1992, this CD is one of the Latin music's true classics, and features Rudy Calzado, Carlos "Patato" Valdéz, Bobby Sanabria, Juan "Papo" Pepin and Victor Paz to name a few. Bauzá is considered by many to be the patriarch of Afro Cuban jazz, and this CD certainly supports that claim. Very Highly Recommended. (BP) MIRIAM BAYARDCuando Salí De Cuba Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2004 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: Here's a nice little son record, featuring the grave, somber voice of Bayard. It's Santiago son, and while the tunes are pretty well known -- El Cuarto De Tula, Lágrimas Negras, Capullito de Alheli -- the record's more than well produced, and vital. It sounds like you're in the room with the band, and the performances sparkle with a reality that the average badly produced son recording usually lacks. The band-flute, trumpet, congas, bass, tres and guitar-rocks quietly; the shadow of nueva trova is cast a bit on the project, in a good way. Highly recommended. (Peter Watrous) YURI BUENAVENTURABest Of Yuri Buenaventura - With 2 Bonus Videos Wrasse/Universal (original import) Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA COLOMBIA; COLOMBIA EditorsPick: What a great compilation of smart, red-hot salsa. Includes tracks from Mr. Buenaventura's now impossible to find CDs "Herencia" and "So Soy." With three never before released tracks: "Donde Estaras (featuring Orishas)," "Insensatez," and a re-mix of "Vagabundo." Also includes two bonus video tracks of "Salsa" and "Une Belle Histoire." Highly Recommended. (BP) JANE BUNNETTSpirits Of Havana Universal/Pimienta (original import) Originally released: 1992 Category: LATIN JAZZ; AFRO-CUBAN JAZZ; CUBA Original Price: ISRAEL "CACHAO" LOPEZ¡Ahora Sí! Andy Garcia Presents Cachao - CD & DVD Set Univision Originally released: 2004 Category: DANCE TRADITIONS; DESCARGAS/MAMBO; CUBA EditorsPick: About the DVD: The package comes with a DVD that is not simply a bonus video track. This is a full length, highly polished, thoroughly enjoyable production produced by actor/director Andy Garcia, complete with eight unforgettable high resolution tracks. With a cast featuring Latin music's royalty: Alfredo Valdes Jr., Danilo Lozano, Federico Britos, Nelson González, Jimmy Bosch, vocalist Lázaro Gallaraga and many, many others, this DVD generates mambo heat from beginning to end. Also features dancers William Márquez "Willy Mambo" and Reneé Victor. Superb photography direction by Mario García Joya, and edited by Chris Cibelli, a higher quality document of the Cachao experience will not be found. About 1 hour. Very Highly Recommended. [BP, 6-21-04] Bow down in front of the almighty Cachao, who in his eighties has recorded a new CD, one that comes with a DVD, also. This, after almost retiring from the music scene. Using a familiar band of musicians -- Alfredo Valdes, Jr. on piano, Orestes Vilato on timbales, Nelson Gonzales on tres, Federico Britos on violin, Jimmy Bosch on trombone, plus a bunch of others -- Cachao swings deeply through it all. Lazaro Galarraga is the vocalist; the music at times sounds very much like Cachao's older descargas. It's a bit ragged (like the earlier descargas), but there are exceptions, like the thoroughly-composed "Si Me Pudieras Querer," which drifts along over Cachao's bowed bass, the melody taken by the clarinet and violin, all tenderly. It's an astonishing document to the richness of Cuban music, and the richness of the life of Cachao, without whom Cuban music would be a radically different territory. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) CALI ALEMANLa Victoria Empire/Universal Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Another hard salsa release by the Nicaraguan singer Cali Aleman - once the lead singer in Orquesta Guayacan. He's a slightly nasal singer who sounds Colombian, and from the get go, the title tune, he comes out like a bull charging the music. A huge coro backs him up, the piano, deep in the groove, motors along and it all adds up to a big, big party. Ah, the glories of salsaŠ Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) CALLE REALCon Fuerza Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA CUBANA; SWEDEN EditorsPick: Straight out of Stockhom, Sweden, comes a hard-hitting pure timba band called Calle Real and brotha' they are for Real. With arrangements that are tight with big tension and big release, this explosive band takes the genre and runs with it - further proof, in case you need it, that timba is now firmly rooted in the worldwide musical vernacular. Undeniably rooted in Cuba, but beyond that, it is impossible to tell if this stuff was brewed on the island or Sweden or Jersey City. And it don' matter, mon. It's great stuff that simply rocks the house: vital and fresh. Con Fuerza is, dare I say, one of the most Timba of recent timba releases: it's Timba-dura. Listen to the wall crushing "Rompiendo Murallas." Superb vocals by Thomas Sebastian Eby. Highly Recommended. (BP) ED CALLEEd Calle Plays Santana Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2004 Category: LATIN JAZZ; LATIN JAZZ EditorsPick: Slick, musak interpretation of the music of Santana, played by Calle on saxophones. Might hurt Santana's feelings, but then there's an audience somewhere for this, I guess. (Peter Watrous) RUDY CALZADOA Tribute To Mario Bauza: Rudy Calzado & Cubarama Universal/Pimienta (original import) Originally released: 2000 Category: LATIN JAZZ; AFRO-CUBAN JAZZ; CUBA EditorsPick: Veteran vocalist Rudy Calzado has exploded back on to the scene with this exciting tribute to one of the most prolific and beloved orchestra leaders in Afro-Cuban jazz, the late Mario Bauza. Bauza was the musical director for the legendary Machito orquestra, and a Cubop pioneer. Calzado had fronted Bauza's big band orchestra in later years. This lavish and loving production is highly recommended. (BP) ANGEL CANALESDifferent Shades Of Thought Universal/TTH/Pimienta Originally released: 1982 Reissued: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Here's a classic 1982 Angel Canales album that has new before been reissued to CD! With Brian Lynch, Bill O'Connell, Antonio Tapia, Victor Even Perez Jr., John Henry Robinson III and others. It's a terrific effort, up there, with El Sentimiento Del Latino en Nueva York with groove, sabor and funk. Check out the bass riff on the extended jazzed up salsa number "A Usted." And the rendition of "Guantanamo" (listed on the CD as "Quantanamo") is pure Canales. Highly Recommended. (BP) MAGGIE CARLESBroadway Latino DVD Universal Originally released: 2003 Category: DVD; POP LATIN Original Price: PEPE CASTILLOBanana Land - Remastered Edition Universal/Callejero/Tropical Budda Originally released: 1991 Reissued: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: What a cool record. Originally released on the Tropical Budda label in 1991, it's a mix of salsa, plena, jazz, funk and pan caribbean riffs. And the opening track, "Banana Land" is a hysterical, yet biting, look at the tourism trade with Castillo singing in pseudo Jamaican tongue. The multi-talented Castillo (composer, keyboards, singer, percussion, accordion, etc., etc.), originally from Puerto Rico, can be considered an unsung master who is responsible for some seriously important Latin projects. He was the arranger and pianist for Cortijo's most acclaimed recording - the funky experimental masterpiece Time Machine. Not bad. And listen to his supporting cast on Banana Land: Edgardo Miranda, Mongo Santamaria, Barry Rogers, Bomberito Zarzuela, Donald Nicks, David 'Cortijito' Rosario and many others. 'Nuff said. Very Highly Recommended. (BP) TERESA GARCIA CATURLALlegó Teté Universal/Pimienta (original import) Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: Veteran Cuban singer Teresa Garcia Caturla shines in this superlative Cuban son project. Wonderfully rich, full arrangements and a cracker-jack band including Amadito Valdes, Guillermo Rubalcaba and Lázaro Dagoberto Gonzalez help to make this one sizzle. Participation by guest vocalists Omara Portuondo, Ibrahim Ferrer and Pio Leyva give this project an authority and flavor similar to the Buena Vista Social Club recordings. However, it's the vocals of Ms. Caturla on tracks like "Cachita" that adds gas to the fire. When she let's loose, watch out. Listen to her duo with Pio Leyva on "El Niche," and then when her exuberance explodes on the white hot "Taurema." She becomes irresistible. It culminates with the killer track "Llego Teté," which should be framed and put on a mantle. On this one, it becomes pretty evident, she has the power. (BP) KEVIN CEBALLOYo Soy Ese Hombre Universal Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: No time to get ready. Wherever you are, when "Amame O Dejame" comes on, you will be dancing, guaranteed. Although there are a few breathers popped in for medicinal purposes (to avoid multiple heart attacks?) most of the tracks here are optimal DJ salsa selections: irresistible, in your face, dynamite-filled dance numbers. I remember when RMM released "Mi Primer Amor" (2000), Kevin Ceballo's debut release. It was an obvious attempt to clone Marc Anthony. This time, however, Mr. Ceballo chooses the red pill, sheds the excessive emotion, and is reborn con fuerza. Listen to what he's capable of now. Highly recommended. (BP) JUAN MANUEL CERUTOA Puerto Padre: Tributo A Emiliano Salvador Universal/Pimienta (original import) Originally released: 2001 Category: LATIN JAZZ; AFRO-CUBAN JAZZ; CUBA Original Price: CHAONDAHerencia Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2006 Category: DANCE TRADITIONS; CHARANGA EditorsPick: One deeply swinging charanga record, fresh from the studio in Miami. The group, led by Gerardo Peña on flute and Gerardo Aguillón on violin, has the imprimatur of Cachao, who is credited as the producer. The recording itself shimmers; you can hear all the strings independently, and the music doesn't let up, built for dancing. There are references to reggaeton; the music is lively and graceful and elegant. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) CHARANGA 7616 Greatest Hits - La Charanga 76 Con Hansel Y Raul Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2006 Category: DANCE TRADITIONS; CHARANGA EditorsPick: Excellent 16 track compilation of the best known hits of La Charanga 76. With "Kuku-cha Ku-cha," "No Nos Pararan (Ain't No Stopping Us Now)," "Chica Boom" and quite a few tracks that are not currently available elsewhere. Features flautist Karen Joseph, Mike Perez and guest Eddie Drennon on violin, and pianist Alfredo Rodriguez. Recommended. (BP) CHARANGA 76La Charanga 76 En El 79 Universal/TTH/Pimienta Originally released: 1979 Reissued: 2006 Category: DANCE TRADITIONS; CHARANGA EditorsPick: Reissue of a 1979 classic featuring Alfredo Rodriguez on piano, Eddie Drennon on violin, vocalists Hansel and Raul, flautist Karen Joseph and others. With "Wanda," "Si Tu Supieras," and "Yo Seguire." Recommended. (BP) CONJUNTO CLASICOSi Ella Estuviera Universal/Machete Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Ray Castro and his crew are back with a superlative, hard-driving old school salsa CD. The venerable Conjunto Clasico doesn't release a new project that often, so it's pretty big news when they do. Past incarnations of the band featured vocalists Tito Nieves, Julio Barretto and Johnny Rivera. For this project, it's Héctor Luis Pagan who's up front, and he does a fine job. Listen to him go to work on "A Ella Le Gusta Mi Rumba," or the cover track "Si Ella Estuviera." With Hector "Maximo" Rodriguez on bass, conguero José "Juicy" Jusino, Nito Caraquillo on piano, tresero José Garcia, Ramon "Ray" Castro and Ramon Rodriguez - the co-founders of Clasico - on coro, and a trumpet section that features Richie Viruet, Pete Nater, Raul Agras, David "Pyro" Rodriguez, and Jose Tabaras. A fine no-nonsense, in-the-pocket salsa project. Recommended. (BP) JOSE CONDE Y OLA FRESCAAy! Que Rico... Seconds - José Conde Y Ola Fresca Universal Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: This is essentially "Ay! Que Rico," originally released in 2004, with the addition of four bonus tracks. Here was my review of that CD... An experimental work based on Mr. Conde's original compositions, this project has both atmosphere and spice. Using a tool-palette full of afro-Cuban styles -- son, changüi, songo-funk, guaracha, and mambo -- most of which are sauteed with a modern twist on a low, steady flame, Mr. Conde is able to justly frame the lyrics which he offers in a cool, unwavering manner. Conde keeps this project on course with intelligence and vision. What could have been a disparate, chaotic grouping of Afro-Cuban genre songs is held steady and in perfect harmony under the direction of Mr. Conde and his superb band. The timba inflections on "El Clasificado," the intoxicating coro on "Tira La Tierra," the fiery and jazzy "El Bombo" (described an "ensalada de samba con salsa, son y descarga") and the big-band feel of "Bolitas De Arroz Con Pollo" all serve Mr. Conde, the lyricist, well. This is an unusual record, and although it does make ample use of tradition, it is non-traditional in most respects. I may not be the best judge of Mr. Conde's poetry, but I know good art when I hear it. Highly recommended. (BP) ORQUESTA CONTINENTAL BRASSHomenaje A Los Grandes Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA EditorsPick: Totally fun nostalgia. Here's an uptempo and churning celebration of material by the heavy hitters: Beny Moré, Rolando LaSerie, Tito Gomez, Chappottín and others. Lead vocals by Jesus Argain and percussionist Miguel Martin. With "Amalia Batista," "Quimbombo," "Baracoa," "Bonita y Sabroso" and more. Recommended. (BP) ELVIS CRESPORegreso El Jefe Universal/Machete/Flash/Nu Originally released: 2007 Category: MERENGUE/BACHATA; MERENGUE EditorsPick: Just to let you know, Elvis Crespo, star of the '90s, tells you he's come back a bunch of times on the recording. And with Regreso el Jefe he sounds good, less boyish, pop merengue at it's best. The Puerto Rican singer has a tough, nasal sound and the songs are good. Old school merengue. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) ELVIS CRESPOSaboréalo OLE/Universal Originally released: 2004 Category: MERENGUE/BACHATA; MERENGUE Original Price: CELIA CRUZAn Extraordinary Woman...Azucar! - DVD Documentary Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2003 Category: DVD; DOCUMENTARY EditorsPick: This wonderful documentary details the life of superstar Celia Cruz. Begins with a history of música Cubana, and takes us through Celia's early years -- with some amazing early photographs -- and then with rare performance footage with La Sonora Matancera. Later, there is explosive salsa footage of her performing with the the Fania All Stars and Johnny Pacheco. With many interviews including family members, Johnny Pacheco, Ralph Mercado, India, Sergio George, and the Queen herself. Superb quality. In Spanish. The box indicates an English option, but I could not get that to work. Highly Recommended. (BP) CELIA CRUZDios Disfrute A La Reina! Universal/Siente Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Good Celia compilation featuring later carrer material. Wiith "Cuando Volverá," "El Muerte Se Fue De Rumba," "Son De La Loma," "Fuerza Antillana," "Sigue Cantando Celia" and others. Some of these titles, I believe, do not appear elsewhere which would make this CD especially collectable. Also with several remix tracks of "Son De La Loma" and "El Muerte Se Fue..." Recommended. (BP) CELIA CRUZEdición Limitada Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: CELIA CRUZÉxitos Eternos Universal/RMM Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: CELIA CRUZÉxitos Eternos II - Include Bonus Video Clip Of "Sazón" Universal/RMM Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: CELIA CRUZGold: Celia Cruz, A Su Memoria - 2 CD Set Universal Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: CELIA CRUZ Irrepetible / Unrepeatable Universal/RMM Originally released: 1994 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: CELIA CRUZLa Más Grande Historia Jamas Cantada: CD & Bonus DVD Lideres/Universal Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Excellent compilation of Celia Cruz's spicy salsa. Include bonus DVD disc with two live performances: "Bombele" with the Fania All Stars, live in Puerto Rico, 1994, and "Bembe Colora," a simply amazing 1975 performance, also with the Fania All Stars (Johnny Pacheco, Ismael Miranda, Willie Colón, Ray Barretto etc.), from New York's Yankee Stadium. Recommended. (BP) CELIA CRUZSerie 32: 2-CD Set Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: CHARLIE CRUZMás De Mí Univision Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: First line: "You didn't meet her in a church, you met her in a disco." The coro: "Now you don't want her to move, you don't want them to see her." All this over a killing beat, modern salsa at its shaking and baking best. This is dance floor honey, a rocking band, good song selection, arrangements, in the Sergio George mold, that make the music sound fresh. Cruz doesn't have the biggest voice in the world, but he gets the job done, moving up into the upper range to show that he really, really means it all. And you want the whole thing to last longer than it does, the grooves so strong, Cruz jumping quickly into the improvisations, that it gives off joy. Here it is: some of the best that the Puerto Rican salsa machine can produce. Tony Tun Tun and Khriz y Angel join Cruz for some tasty Salsatón. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) CUBAN DREAMSA Reunion: The Havana Sessions Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: Superlative two-part Cuban son and jam recordings consisting of many of the Buena Vista musicians. This project was completed in part in Havana and in part New York with the help of Pio Leyva, Ibrahim Ferrer, Cachaito, Juan Pablo Torres, Alfredo Valdés, Richard Egües and many others. The Cuban and New York sessions are available as separate CDs. Highly recommended. (BP) CUBAN DREAMSA Reunion: The New York Sessions Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: Superlative two-part Cuban son and jam recordings consisting of many of the Buena Vista musicians. This project was completed in part in Havana and in part New York with the help of Pio Leyva, Ibrahim Ferrer, Cachaito, Juan Pablo Torres, Alfredo Valdés, Richard Egües and many others. The Cuban and New York sessions are available as separate CDs. Highly recommended. (BP) CUBAN MASTERSLos Originales Universal/MusicHaus Originally released: 2001 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA Original Price: OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTA30 Aniversario Universal Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; VENEZUELA Original Price: OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTADoble Play: Oscar D'Leon Y Wladimir Universal Originally released: 2000 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; VENEZUELA EditorsPick: D'Leon here joins forces with fellow Venezuelan vocalist Wladimir Lozano to produce a very fine high-energy salsa release where every cut seems to be finely crafted. As in all of D'Leon's releases, the band is well oiled and the coro is perfect. However, it is the way these two vocalists interact that is a thing a real beauty. They share their lines with apparent ease, and the weight of each word gets distributed from Oscar to Wladimir, and back again, with finesse. Listen to their versions of "Anabacoa" and "Chan Chan." (BP) OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTAEdición Limitada Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTAEsenciales: The Ultimate Collection, Vol. 1 Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTAÉxitos Eternos Universal Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Here's a fine Oscar D'Leon compilation featuring some of his mega hits like "Llorarás". "Me Voy Pa' Cali", "Capullito de Alheli" and "Detalles". Recommended. (BP) OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTAInfinito Universal Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: New uptempo release from El Leon de la Salsa. Half salsa, half vallenato. Recorded in Puerto Rico and Venezuela. (BP) OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTAMás Que Amor...Frenesí Universal Originally released: 2001 Category: BOLERO; BOLERO / BALADA EditorsPick: Ok, I'm a sucker for a well done bolero. Here are eleven. (BP) OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTAOro Salsero: 2-CD Set Universal/RMM Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTAPura Salsa: A Ritmo De Oscar D'Leon Universal/RMM Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Part of a fine series of 20 different CDs that highlight the hits of legendary salsa singers and bandleaders. Purchase this one alone, or purchase the entire set of 20 CDs at a discount HERE! (BP) OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTAPura Salsa: A Ritmo De Oscar D'Leon - Live Universal/RMM Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Nice compilation of live performances by the popular salsa singer. (BP) OSCAR D'LEON Y SU ORQUESTASerie 32: 2-CD Set Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: PAQUITO D'RIVERAAnd The United Nations Orchestra: A Night In Englewood Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 1994 Category: LATIN JAZZ; LATIN JAZZ EditorsPick: Back in stock! The United Nations Orchestra, under the dynamic leadership of Paquito D'Rivera perpetuates Dizzy Gillespie's legacy, blending the colors and rhythms of Afro-Cuban, Brazilian and Caribbean music within the jazz tapestry. (BP) PAQUITO D'RIVERABig Band Time Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2003 Category: LATIN JAZZ; BIG BAND LATIN JAZZ EditorsPick: Paquito D'Rivera returns, con gusto, to the Latin big band format. Using his own core group in collaboration with the huge WDR Big Band in Cologne, Germany, Mr. D' Rivera is able to bring a another era to life. And it swings, conjuring the flavors of Mario Bauza, Chico O'Farril, and the Machito Orchestra. An Afro-Cuban jazz blast. Highly recommended. (BP) PAQUITO D'RIVERALa Habana-Rio Conexion Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 1992 Category: LATIN JAZZ; LATIN JAZZ EditorsPick: Another fine early '90s Messidor release reissued. This one also features Giovanni Hidalgo, Claudio Roditi, Danilo Perez, Johnny Rodriguez, Jose Madera and many others. Recommended. (BP) PAQUITO D'RIVERAPaquito D'Rivera & Arturo Sandoval - Reunion Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 1990 Reissued: 2004 Category: LATIN JAZZ; LATIN JAZZ EditorsPick: A reissue, originally from the German Messidor label, of the first recording Paquito D' Rivera and Arturo Sandoval made after leaving Irakere. It includes Danilo Perez, Giovanni Hidalgo and Fareed Haque and it's an extremely strong latin jazz recording, a recording that helped make their careers outside of Cuba. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) PAQUITO D'RIVERAPaquito D'Rivera Presents 40 Years Of Cuban Jam Session Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 1993 Reissued: 2004 Category: LATIN JAZZ; LATIN JAZZ EditorsPick: Recorded in 1993, 40 Years of Cuban Jam Session is a landmark album that helped introduce the modern Cuban jazz sound to the world. With El Negro on trap drums, electric bass -- except for the magnificent tracks that Cachao rumbles through on upright -- and a modern harmonic vocabulary, it set a paradigm that's still being dealt with. It's not all successful, and the fusiony touches sound more than dated, but the best parts of this recording are as good as anything on tape. The line up of people, including Juan Pablo Torres, Chocolate, Kike Hernandez and more is pretty astonishing, and Paquito, yakety saxish at times, sails through proceedings. Recommended. (Peter Watrous) PAQUITO D'RIVERAThe Clarinetist Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: LATIN JAZZ; LATIN JAZZ EditorsPick: This Grammy nominated CD centers on Mr. D'Rivera's virtuosity as a clarinetist. Embracing classical, symphonic and jazz, the beauty and tonal range of the clarinet is clearly defined by his sensitivity, and emotive playing. (BP) DADDY YANKEEBarrio Fino Universal Originally released: 2004 Category: POP/OTHER; REGGAETON EditorsPick: Anybody that's into rhythm has to love reggaeton, and Daddy Yankee, guest on so many recordings, makes tough dance records. Barrio Fino is filled with ominous keyboard swells and rhythms that cut precisely; that helps explain his pile of platinum albums. There isn't much sunlight in the proceedings. Andy Montanez shows up for one tune, and the whole project is the present and future of Afro-Caribbean popular music. Highly recommended. (Peter Watrous) DADDY YANKEEBarrio Fino En Directo: CD & DVD Set El Cartel/Universal Originally released: 2005 Category: POP/OTHER; REGGAETON EditorsPick: Recommended. (Peter Watrous) DADDY YANKEEEl Cartel: The Big Boss El Cartel/Universal Originally released: 2007 Category: POP/OTHER; REGGAETON EditorsPick: The shout outs on the first track suggest where reggaeton has reached, from California to Cuba and all over the Latin world. "El mundo entero," raps Daddy Yankee. Since reggateon's not really doing much nowadays, it's curious to hear if there'd be any changes on the album, and the answer is, no. It's still great dance music, and the main instrument is still the cheesy keyboard, and there's still not much in the way of songwriting. It's groove music, the best there is in the style. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) DANZÓN BY SIXElegante - With Federico Britos Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2004 Category: DANCE TRADITIONS; CHA CHA CHA, CHARANGA, DANZON EditorsPick: Riding high on his new well deserved respect and fame for his work with Bebo Valdés on We Can Make Such Beautiful Music Together, virtuoso violinist Federico Brito has produced the second Danzón by Six record. Elegante is just that: an elegant, sweet and tasty group of danzón gems. Britos, who was born un Uruguay has assembled a top notch band featuring, among others, flautist Gustavo Cruz, percussionist Eddie Bonilla, Eddie "Guagua" Rivera on bass and special guests Israel "Cachao" López, Alfredo Valdés Jr. and vocalist Onelio Pérez. Highly recommended. (BP) ISSAC DELGADO Y SU GRUPOEn Primera Plana Univision/Universal Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA CUBANA; CUBA EditorsPick: Delgado, one of the Caribbean's great singers, one of the great singers of the 20th century, the Frank Sinatra of salsa and leader of one of the great bands of his time, has moved to Florida, and the first thing he's done is record a classic salsa album that if all is well in the world, will give him a great career here for the rest of his natural life. Because there's nothing like his singing, his sense of swing, his rhythmic assuredness, his melodic invention; it's all so casual, laden with sensuality. The first track has Delgado singing with Victor Manuelle, and it's a track that could go on for twenty minutes, their trading is so inspired. Delgado and Sergio George produced the record, with help from Alain Pérez, the bassist and arranger who was so integral to the success of what's considered one of the great timba bands of all time, Delgado's band from '97. But this music isn't timba, it's salsa with great coros, perfect tempos, and a pile of great singing from Delgado; I'd argue that En Primera Plana is his best album yet. And there are guests, including Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Giovanni Hidalgo, the rapper Fragancia and Cachao. Luis Quintero handles much of the percussion, and Pérez plays the bass on most tracks; it's all touched by dance music perfection. Check out the breaks on "Sone/La Campana", with break after break, and thick, full coros rocking the place. Or the mambo on "Vengo Veneoso", which breaks into a rumba, Delgado's voice shifting subtly, moving into the environment of the rumba for a second or two. There's even a tres on a track or two (one track's a changui); on Paquito Va, the piece explodes in the glories of a huge coro and the same sized horn section, working over George's specialty the caballo rhythm. Delgado could have gone in 14 different directions for this new album. He easily could have made a pop album, or a folk-ish album for the Anglo NPR market, or pandered to the reggaeton market. Instead he's made a hard salsa album, an album for Latin audiences, one aimed at the radio, with an immense honesty, plus a bunch of dignity. And let me tell you, the proof of the music's power is simple: I reach for the music whenever I want to hear something. It's in the cd player all the time, all day and all night. Highly Recommended, a major work by a major figure. (Peter Watrous) ISSAC DELGADO Y SU GRUPOProhibido Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA CUBANA; CUBA EditorsPick: Delgado's first album in three years; he claims in the liner notes he almost quit music totally. But he didn't, and on Prohibido he goes to the bassist who helped make his late '90s band such an innovative group, Alain Perez, to produce the bulk of the music. And he calls on the Venezuelan cousins, Roberto and Luis Quintero, veterans of so much New York salsa, to handle the percussion. And while there isn't any new breakthrough here, Alain has sped things up, making the music up-tempo salsa, pushing Issac to sing harder and faster, producing music that seems a bit more part of the mainstream of Latin dance music. As usual, Issac sings some ballads, and there's no one like him, working with a full, thick voice. Alain's arrangements at first seem made to fit a pattern; slowly his quirks show up, and the music takes on a richness that's hardly ever heard in salsa - check out the rhythm arrangement that starts the tune "Lo Malo Que Tiene La Habana." There are some covers, including Los Van Van's huge hit, "La Titimania," and everywhere is the hardcore swing that Delgado generates. Again, there's nothing like him, and Prohibido is as good as he's ever been in a studio, though I'd stretch out the tunes if I were running the show. He's a gift. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) DESCEMERSiete Rayo Universal Originally released: 2006 Category: POP/OTHER; POP LATIN; CUBA EditorsPick: The latest entry into the modern Cuban pop/exile explosion. Descemer helped start Yerba Buena, and went on his own way, and the music is loaded with all sorts of stuff, arab lute playing over hip hop beats, coros, women singers, lots of studio technique. There's rock stuff mixed it, along with funny English sections, horn lines, acoustic guitars, samples of older Cuban music. Ska rhythms show up, pan Caribbean beats, and lots of intelligence. Fastchat rapping, in Spanish. For whatever reason, this record has pretty much disappeared from the market place. Pick it up now before it vanishes, it's the sound of the future, and a pretty great future it'll be. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) MIKE DEVITOJuego Peligroso Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Damn, who would have known? Out of nowhere (well, Miami) comes Mike DeVito with a hard salsa release, slick (in a good sense), radio ready, well produced, well-played and well recorded. Devito, half-Italian and half-Cuban, has put together a program that swings deeply, maintains a commercial sound-the first tune, "Te Dare Te Dare" could be a Victor Manuelle tune, but better-and a coro that really shouts. He did the production, arrangements and almost everything else. There's so much energy on the release, even with in the commercial salsa confines, that you want to hear it over and over. Great for the dance floor, and djs. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) DIMENSION LATINAAl Paso Latin World / Universal Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; VENEZUELA Original Price: DON DINEROAhora Que Sí Universal Originally released: 2005 Category: POP/OTHER; HIP HOP; PUERTO RICO EditorsPick: A new one from the rapper Don Dinero. Recorded here, but deeply Cuban in its references, the album does Latin hip-hop more than well. The production's been pushed up a notch, with good choruses, and a big range of textures and rhythms. Radio ready, even if it's not reggaetonŠ Recommended. (Peter Watrous) DON DINEROCuban Connection: Que Bola! Universal/Revolu Originally released: 2003 Category: POP/OTHER; HIP HOP EditorsPick: Excellent Latin hip hip, Cubano style. Features D'Mingo on four tracks. Good for the clubs, especially "Don Dinero," a track I am hearing a lot on New York radio. Recommended. (BP) DON DINERODon Dinero And The Revolu All Stars Universal Originally released: 2003 Category: POP/OTHER; HIP HOP EditorsPick: Good reggatón Latin hip hop by one of the more popular artists of the moment. With special guests D'Mingo, Vice Verse, Kenji, and Candela. Fine club material with deep grooves. Recommended. (BP) DON DINEROSu Vida Y La Calle - DVD Universal Category: DVD; HIP HOP Original Price: DON DINEROThe Best Of Don Dinero: Remixes CD & Bonus DVD Universal/Lideres Originally released: 2004 Category: DVD; REGGAETON Original Price: DJ NELSONFlow La Discoteka Universal Originally released: 2004 Category: POP/OTHER; REGGAETON Original Price: ECOS DE SIBONEYSaludo Compay Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: This beautiful son recording is done in the classic traditional style. The band-members are the grandchildren of Compay Segundo, who has taught them the details and subtleties of this undying form. This project is a tribute to Mr. Segundo (Maximo Repilado Muñoz), and was produced by Juan Pablo Torres. This tres and guitar based repertoire swings, and on tracks like ""La Cafetera De Lola" and "Ahora Me Da Pena," it also sizzles. There are sections here that are sure to leave you, just slightly, intoxicated. Highly recommended. (BP) CANDIDO FABRÉThe Best Of Candido Fabre Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA CUBANA; CUBA Original Price: LOS FAKIRESLos Fakires Universal (original import) Originally released: 2000 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: If you pare away all of the extraneous parts of some of today's over-produced "All Star" son bands down to the essential elements of son Cubano, you are left with Los Fakires. This small conjunto sweetly and genuinely interprets some of the classics of the genre. (BP) VARIOUS ARTISTSFania: Soneros De Siempre Universal/Vene Music Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA: CLASSIC 1960s or 1970s NEW YORK EditorsPick: Excellent compilation of classic Fania tracks featuring the cream of their stable of singers: Celia Cruz, Pete Rodriguez, Adalberto Santiago, Hector Lavoe, Johnny Pacheco, Cheo Feliciano, Justo Betancourt, Ruben Blades and others. Some of the featured tracks are "Quitate Tú ," "Así Se Compne Un Son," "Anacaona," "Quimbara," "Aguzate," "Soy Boricua," "Periódico De Ayer" and more. (BP) VARIOUS ARTISTSOld School Salsa Classics - 4 CD Set Universal Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Great big salsa compilation (4 discs) featuring a lot of 1990s RMM and Rodven artists and titles. Some of the names of note here are Willie Rosario, Héctor Tricoche, José Alberto "El Canario," David Pabón, Frankie Ruiz, Marc Anthony, India, Domingo Quiñones, Ray De La Paz, Oscar D'Leon, Tito Nieves and many, many others. A *lot* of good material here. Recommended. (BP) FARÁNDULA SANTIAGUERACuba De Noche Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: Another fine Cuban son-salsa record fro Pimienta. Slim liners don't say who's on it, but it's chock with churning, grinding son classic covers like "La Negra Tomasa," "Chan Chan," "La Múcura," and "Havana Club." It totally tres framed Buena Vista repertoire, and sounds gooood. Turn the lights down, turn the volume up and fill up a rum and coke. Recommended. (BP) ALFREDO DE LA FÉLatitudes Universal Originally released: 2000 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Back in stock! With its unencumbered feel (even a bit of Brazilian flaver is added to the mix) this highly anticipated new release by De La Fé will not disappoint. De La Fé, a veteran in the salsa and charanga scene since the sixties, has an ecclectic approach that allows him the freedom to experiment with the essential Afro-Cuban building blocks. His mastery of the violin is evident, but the unusual twists and turns it takes never ceases to surprise. He also plays violas, cellos, congo vocals, piano, and accordian on this record. (BP) CHEO FELICIANOLas 32 Mas Grandes De Cheo Feliciano - 2 CD Set Lideres/Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA Original Price: CHEO FELICIANOPura Salsa: A Ritmo De Cheo Feliciano Universal/RMM Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Part of a fine series of 20 different CDs that highlight the hits of legendary salsa singers and bandleaders. Purchase this one alone, or purchase the entire set of 20 CDs at a discount HERE! (BP) JOSÉ FELICIANOAyer, Hoy Y Siempre DVD & CD Package Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: DVD; POP LATIN Original Price: JOSÉ FELICIANOSeñor Bolero 2 Universal Originally released: 2003 Category: BOLERO; BOLERO / BALADA Original Price: JOSÉ FELICIANOSiempre Boleros Universal/Vene Music Originally released: 2007 Category: BOLERO; BOLERO / BALADA EditorsPick: Fine compilation of boleros by the popular singer and composer. Recommended. (BP) FRANK EMILIO FLYNNMusica Original De Cuba Universal/Empire Originally released: 2006 Category: DANCE TRADITIONS; DANZAS; CUBA EditorsPick: For those of you in love with Bebo Valdez, here's a treat: Frank Emilio Flynn, one of the Cuba's greatest pianists, recorded 16 tracks in 1959, meant to be a history of Cuban music. It's stately, and graceful, with pieces by Cervantes, Romeu, Urife, O'Farrill and others. Most of it is solo; seven tracks have him playing with the accompaniment of a guiro. It's pretty amazing stuff, a musicologist's dream, and a boon for the fan of Flynn, and the entire Cuban piano tradition. A gem, and not a small one either, and a reminder of a kinder, gentler past. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) ARAMIS GALINDOTiempos Que Cambian Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2005 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA CUBANA; CUBA EditorsPick: Like a bull with his tail on fire, Aramis Galindo's high octane brand of timba Cubana bolts straight out of the stereo to fill the room with an electric rhythmic energy that doesn't quit. This guy can sure belt it out. Supported by an absolutely killer metal section and crackerjack coro singers, Mr. Galindo is an easily identifiable top-pick. His voice sure ain't pretty, but he knows how to get the job done. This is the stuff of frenetic red-hot timba Cubana (plus there's one cumbia, "Me Voy Pa' Beté," that rocks hard too) and, after four years, the world is just about ready for a new Aramis Galindo release. Highly Recommended. (BP) JAVIER GARCÍA13 Universal/Surco Originally released: 2005 Category: POP/OTHER; POP LATIN EditorsPick: This fresh pop pan-Caribbean Latin dance release by vocalist/guitarist Javier Garcia has elements of Cuban son, rock, and Jamaican reggae and ska. Heavy rhythmic dance structures are here layered with horns, electric guitars, hip-hop phrasing - it's a bilingual salsa fusion that points to the future of Latin music. Of Cuban-Irish blood, Miami-based Garcia co-wrote most of the material on 13 (there are 13 tracks), sings and plays guitar as well. And he's on to something. With the world getting smaller every day his culturally mixed hard driving dance tracks - replete with infectious hooks - talk to a pretty large group of people. It's a big party. Check it out... Highly Recommended. (BP) EL GENERALEl General Is Back Lideres/Universal Originally released: 2001 Category: POP/OTHER; RAP/REGGAE Original Price: BLANCA ROSA GILNo Soy Tu Esclava Universal/Protel Originally released: 1974 Reissued: 2006 Category: BOLERO; BOLERO / BALADA Original Price: RUBÉN GONZÁLEZ JR.Mulatas Magicas Universal/Pimienta Originally released: 2003 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: It takes about two seconds to hear the glorious groove of the first track, with Gonzalez's piano figure setting a tempo that just feels great. The mulatas magicas on coro speak up, as do horns, and then Gonzalez's piano solo and everything melts into place. Gonzalez's father is Ruben Sr. of Buena Vista fame, and he's been hiding out in Mexico, working as a studio musician. He should make more records: he brings a danzon formality to some of the music and his choice of tempos (slow, slower) is almost archaic, and refreshing. This isn't ordinary music by any means, and when he delves into dance music it's always precise and thoughtful. El Nene shows up to sing El Guyaberas' "Marieta"; Pio Leiva sings one tune, and three sisters, the Chiki Chaka Girls contribute coros. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) JERRY GONZALEZMusic For Big Band - Arranged And Conducted By Miguel Blanco Universal Spain (original import) Originally released: 2006 Category: LATIN JAZZ; LATIN JAZZ EditorsPick: Gonzalez can't seem to walk more than a step or two without creating drama. The trumpeter's put together a Spanish big band - featuring some fantastic Spanish musicians, including Gorka Benitez and Perico Sambeat on saxophones - and they work through pieces by Wayne Shorter and Charles Mingus and Larry Willis along with Miguel Blanco, who wrote the modern, Gil Evans-ish arrangements. It's often beautiful music, moody - the second track "El Vito en El Congo" opens with percussion and bird sounds. And the playing, all floating over an electric bass, and loaded with percussion and horn snorts, is uniformly excellent. He and his orchestra take on Mingus, giving "Goodbye Porkpie Hat" a bunch of percussion and clave. Gonzalez, his horn muted or open, sounds, well, dramatic. It's the next installment in a run of recordings that are placing him apart from his generation. Highly Recommended. (Peter Watrous) NELSON GONZALEZNelson Gonzalez And His Band Universal/TTH/Pimienta Originally released: 1977 Reissued: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: From 1977, just reissued to CD! (BP) RUBÉN GONZÁLEZBest Of Buena Vista - Original Versions Universal/Vene Music Originally released: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SON, GUARACHA, GUAJIRA; CUBA EditorsPick: Good compilation of material by one of the Buena Vista Social Club masters. (BP) GRUPOMANÍAGrupomania 2050 Universal Originally released: 2001 Category: MERENGUE/BACHATA; MERENGUE Original Price: GRUPOMANÍALatino Universal Originally released: 2002 Category: MERENGUE/BACHATA; MERENGUE Original Price: GUACOLa Historia 1980-2000, Los Mejores Éxitos De Los Ultimos 20 Años Latin World / Universal Originally released: 2004 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA INTERNATIONAL; VENEZUELA EditorsPick: Wow, these guys are good, and have been for a long time; sit back and take a ride on the groove. The Venezuelan band has been working in a quasi-timba style since before timba was invented, rocking the salsa, and rocking it hard. The band mixes rhythms, and styles and it comes out sounding modern and fresh. If this compilation doesn't convince people that it's one of the best groups in latin music, nothing will. Great singing, smart harmonies and a desire to move the dance floor: listen to the break into the montuno on "La Culpable" to hear the power of a drum kit and electric bass. This is a band that puts its sights on being great, and comes pretty damn close. Highly recommended. (Peter Watrous) GUARAREGuarare Universal/TTH/Pimienta Originally released: 1977 Reissued: 2006 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Classic salsa from 1977, just reissued on CD! (BP) JUAN LUIS GUERRA Y 4:40 Grandes Exitos De Juan Luis Guerra Y 4:40 Universal/Karen Originally released: 1995 Category: MERENGUE/BACHATA; MERENGUE Original Price: JUAN LUIS GUERRA Y 4:40Grandes Exitos En Video - DVD Universal/Karen Category: MERENGUE/BACHATA; BACHATA; DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Original Price: JUAN LUIS GUERRA Y 4:40Para Ti Universal/Vene Music Originally released: 2004 Category: MERENGUE/BACHATA; BACHATA Original Price: Significant links... • Recent the most current Editor's Picks Reviews • Read the Descarga's Best of 2006 • The new wave of remastered classic FANIA reissues • The Descarga Homepage • Browse our growing inventory of DVDs • Dance salsa now with the best instructional 2-DVD set... Eddie Torres Teaches Salsa Nightclub Style |
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