It's a pleasant surprise to see a "very best of "CD from a group with so few releases.
Cubanismo has only released four CD's on the fine Hannibal label. However, as is the trend nowadays, these compilations have some previously unreleased tracks which pulls in the buyer.
Cubanismo is a group of seasoned Cuban musicians led by trumpeter Jesus Alemany. Since 1995 Alemany has continued to hone his outfit into one of the most dynamic purveyors of son and traditional Cuban dance music.
There are twelve tracks on the CD of which two are previously unreleased. They are two reggae classics "Get Up, Stand Up" and "Could You Be Loved." "Get Up,Stand Up" features the exquisite Ernest Ranglin on guitar, but surprisingly his playing is lost in the mix. Being hidden in this arrangement doesn't deny the awesome wall of sound put out by the brass section. The horns of course are stellar on every track, with Alemany blazing the way. On "Could You Be Loved" the vocal turn is provided by up and coming reggae superstar Luciano.
There is no way to describe the excellent percussion work on this CD. As few as 5 and as many as 9 percussionists work on these tunes.It is probably more adequate to feel it than try to use words. You'd have to be dead to not want to move to this music.
Jesus Alemany's talent not just as a trumpet player but as an arranger and musical director are evident. The interplay between the brass, percussion (inc. piano) and vocals is dynamically superior and precise. It's almost like they're trying to outdo each other on every solo but at the same time providing dynamite accompaniment to encourage them.
The tracks "Salsa Pilon" and "Mambo UK," have the basic elements of mambo, salsa and son but with non-traditional elements thrown in. They have the feeling of the aforementioned but with bits of free jazz, dance, and Latin pop thrown in the mix.
Whether you've heard a lot of Cuban music or are new to the genre,this CD is valuable addition to the body of work. This group was there at the beginning of the rediscovery of popular Cuban music and they are still a force to be reckoned with. When you listen to this CD you will say " MUCHO GUSTO!"
Simply click on the CD cover at left to order this CD NOW!
This review is copyright © 2002 by Putnay Thomas, and Blues On Stage at: www.mnblues.com, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission.
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