From bruce at descarga.com Fri Jan 4 10:18:23 2008 From: bruce at descarga.com (Bruce Polin) Date: Fri, 4 Jan 2008 10:18:23 -0500 Subject: The Descarga Review: New Bobby Valentin, Sammy Garcia, Ray Santiago, Alfredo Linares ...and more! Message-ID: <2A31EB11-AAB1-44A9-A081-413E4CCE6094@descarga.com> Bad links? No images? click: HERE The Descarga Review ? January 04, 2008 Brought to you by Descarga.com This issue: New from Bobby Valentin, Sammy Garcia, Ray Santiago, Alfredo Linares, Salsa Clandestina ...and more! Also: End of Year Charanga Blast! ends January 9th! Editor's Picks: Best of 2007 Free Shipping for orders of 10 or more items! (US & PR). - Gift Certificates Here are some new and reissued CDs and DVDs of interest... BOBBY VALENTIN Evolution - CD & DVD Bronco Originally released: 2008 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; PUERTO RICO EditorsPick: It's in! The highly anticipated new project by the veteran bassist has the earmarks of a classic. Valentin knows exactly who he is and where he came from, at ease taking on past gems in a manner that is neither nostalgic or kitsch: with a purity of vision he makes them his own. With Evolution, an apt title indeed, he has produced one of the most intriguing and well-balanced salsa records I have heard in a long time: a class act that's smart, stylish, and packed with four decades of salsa know-how. The former Fania All Star brought in some special friends like Ray De La Paz, Luis Marin and Paoli Mejias to help give life to some savory new compositions and a crop of exemplary cover renditions like Silvestre Mendez' "Clotide," Enrique Bonnet's "Que Me Digan Feo" and Roberto Anglero's "Hace Tiempo Que Te Estoy Mirando." Valentin's singers, Julio Lopez and Kriptony Texeira, are both high caliber performers. Check out Lopez' vocal prowess on "El Do?a Bella," the Raul Marerro composition. And Texeira does complete justice to Bobby Capo's "El Cuc?." But there's no denying the excitement generated by any project that includes Ray De La Paz. This guy throws fireballs left and right, and the two Gino Melendez tracks he sings are clearly highlights on Evolution. The top notch band also features pianists Lenny Prieto and Jos? Lugo, trumpeters Angie Machado and Julio Alvarado, bone player Eliut Cintron, and a coro section that boasts Luisito Carri?n, Pichi P?rez, Chewi Ramos, Janira Torres, and Nino Segarra. There are invited guests, too: the singer Giselle and guitarist (and New York Yankee) Bernie Williams. The CD is so good I almost forgot to mention the DVD. (What you get is a special 2-sided disk with the audio CD on one side and the DVD on the other.) The DVD is a wonderfully produced and finely edited window into the recording sessions of Evolution. There are four complete tracks including Ray De De La Paz' blistering take on "?A Que Se Debe?" and a Giselle's sultry and *very* sexy interpretation of Rafael Blanco Suazo's classic "Si-Si, No-No," made famous by Machito and Graciela. It's a killer not to be missed. Again, with Evolution, a new classic is born. Very Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. CD: Clotilde 2. El Cuc? 3. El Do?a Bella 4. Que Me Digan Feo 5. El Alma 6. Hace Tiempo Que Te Estoy Mirando 7. ?A Qu? Se Debe? 8. Tu Pueblo Es Mi Pueblo 9. Four Plus Two 10. Si-Si, No-No 11. Piel Canela 12. No Name 13. DVD: El Do?a Bella 14. Hace Tiempo Que Te Estoy Mirando 15. ?A Qu? Se Debe? 16. Si-Si, No-No Price: $21.98 ? Buy Now SAMMY GARC?A Por Buen Camino Codiscos (original import) Originally released: 2008 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; PUERTO RICO EditorsPick: High impact uptempo salsa direct from Puerto Rico. Sammy Garcia just may be the most widely sought after session conguero in our database. This guy has played with just about everybody: Willie Col?n, Conjunto Clasico, Grupo Niche, Michael Stuart, Luis "Perico" Ortiz, Ismael Miranda, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Sonora Ponce?a, etc., etc., etc. And Por Buen Camino is full of bright, catchy hooks and brimming with capitol "S" Salsa dance rhythm - it's perfect for your next party or the dance club. Zero filler, each track is a fistful of salsa dancing bliss. Check out "Amor Despiadado" - play it loud and check your heart rate. With the singers Wilfredo Col?n and Joselito Hernandez. Produced in conjunction with Diego Gale's Salsa Power studios. Highly recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Salsa, Ritmo Y Movimiento (4:32) 2. Me Muero (4:40) 3. Cuando Yo La Conoc? (4:15) 4. Amor Despiadado (4:50) 5. Ven Dame Un Cari?ito (4:49) 6. Ay Elena (5:07) 7. Tiempos Lejanos (4:35) 8. Capullito De Azucena (4:14) 9. El Rinconcito (4:33) 10. La ?ltima Palabra (4:15) 11. Nena, As? No Se Vale (3:56) 12. Donde Yo Nac? (4:23) Price: $15.98 ? Buy Now RAY SANTIAGO Latin Up - Ray Santiago Afro Cuba A La New York City Ray Santiago Originally released: 2008 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Take the tasty, hard-driving piano playing and earthy direction of Ray Santiago, add the seasoned voice of Julian Llanos [who sang with the likes of Arsenio Rodr?guez, Cortijo, and H?ctor Rivera] and you get a gritty, very New York Latin dance and jam band that could go all night. Ray is not afraid to mix it up, offering unexpected tempos and montuno variations. Listen to his near turbulent treatment of the standard "Besame Mucho" as it morphs into a jazzy descarga. In fact, most of Santiago's arrangements bear, at the very least, the suggestion of going descarga on you. Here are musicians who are trained to think on their toes, and, if the stars are aligned just right, the swing goes where it takes them. Listen to it happen on "Amparame," and on "Oya Diosa" too. There's almost a Senegalese feel to "Lucha Por lo Tuyo," the opening track, with its extended montuno, gritty sax and luxurious electric guitar (Frank Morin) riffs. There was a time when, on any given Friday night, you might stumble upon small clubs featuring bands like Conjunto Libre, The Fort Apache Band, Cruz Control, or Wayne Gorbea. Ray Santiago's band fit right into that scenario. He exudes the best of what was more common back in the day, mixing up the colors of Puerto Rico, Cuba, Africa and the diaspora with nuances of jazz and improvisation. This is true, rootsy, down-home New York Latin club music. With Kenneth Burney (congas), Nelson Burgos (bongo, percussion), Wataru Ochida (Saxophone), Yagil Barras (bass), Steve Gluzband (trumpet) and others. Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Lucha Por Lo Tuyo (7:22) 2. En Mi Viejo San Juan (4:30) 3. Saludo A Elegua (4:24) 4. Lalle Lalle (4:18) 5. Besame Mucho (4:39) 6. Amparame (4:40) 7. Oya Diosa (6:00) 8. Lacho (4:28) 9. Mission Impossible (3:58) Price: $14.98 ? Buy Now ALFREDO LINARES Salsa De Verdad Alfredo (original import) Originally released: 2008 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; PERU EditorsPick: Now this is cool. Here's a compilation of rare material by the Peruvian pianist, arranger and composer Alfredo Linares who, according to John Child, "...initially made his mark in the early '70s with the quirky hits "Tiahuanaco" and "Mambo Rock" [both included in this compilation - Ed.]. He has made a string of albums as a leader that have become rare collectors items. Linares relocated to Venezuela in the late '70s, where, among other things, he produced an album for Grupo Mango, arranged for Salsa Mayor (Oscar D'Le?n's former band) and Mango's ex-vocalist Joe Ruiz, and made the album Alfredito y sus Estrellas. Linares took-up residence in Colombia in the mid-1980s, where he worked on recordings with Piper Pimienta, Los Del Caney, Conjunto Renacer, Grupo Calima, La Cali Charanga, Lucho Puerto Rico, Conjunto Son del Barrio, Orquesta Mateca?a, Daisy and Grupo Los Conquistadores." It's all swanky, driven, and full of fine, fine Latin dance grooves. Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. El Pito 2. Mambo Rock 3. Tihuanaco 4. Mi Dulce Amor 5. Machupichu 6. Nostalgia Cale?a 7. Cachumembe 8. El Chevere 9. Ritmo Caliente 10. Mi Nuevo Ritmo 11. Desconfianza 12. Salsa Y Sabor 13. La Salsa Va A Comenzar 14. Amor Amargo 15. Ponte En Onda 16. La M?sica Por Dentro 17. Lo Ultimo 18. El Chocolate 19. Para Ti 20. Estricto Guaguanco 21. Aprietala Price: $16.98 ? Buy Now LUCHO MACEDO La Sonora De Lucho Macedo Lucho (original import) Originally released: 2008 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; PERU EditorsPick: In the vein of the great Cuban orchestras like those of Miguelito Vald?s, Rolando La Serie, Pupi Campo, and Per?z Prado, here's a terrific compilation of material by the Peruvian pianist pianist-composer and bandleader Lucho Macedo. Althought the documentation is minimal at best, I would guess that the bulk of the material derives from the '50s and '60s. With the fiery "Yo No Bailo Con Juana," "Compay Lobo," "Sabor A Mi," "Caramelo," "Ave Maria Lola" and many others. With Rosita Negreiros, Cesar Gonzalez and Manolo Castro. Rare material, and Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Yo No Bailo Con Juana 2. Arrependtida 3. Caramelos 4. Compay Lobo 5. Negrura 6. Solterito 7. Compasion 8. Preparen Candela 9. Sabor A Mi 10. Yo No Trabajo 11. Lagrimas Negras 12. Donde Estabas Anoche 13. Lindo Omelenko 14. Guapachando 15. Ven Pa Mi Casa 16. Pobre Del Pobre 17. Moliendo Cafe 18. Perfume De Rosa 19. Humo 20. Ya Te Lo Gije 21. Margot 22. Ave Maria Lola Price: $15.98 ? Buy Now VARIOUS ARTISTS The Rough Guide To Salsa Clandestina World Music Network Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Here's a fine selection of salsa that swims just under the radar. While some of the tracks represented here still maintain some of the qualities inherent in popular salsa styles, much of the stuff you'll hear on Salsa Clandestina has elements of alternative and world-beat music. Funk, hip-hop, electronica and soul drive the spirit of tracks by Ray Santiago, The Spam All Stars, Cuban Cowboys, Alex Wilson, and Los Amigos Invisibles. I especially liked the pseudo jibaro-charanga-rock "La Raiz" by Radio Mundial, and the driving Middle Eastern feel of Baku's "Desde Cuba Hasta Afghanistan" - the jewel in this crown. Compiled by Pablo Yglesias. Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. It's A Man's World - Ray Santiago (5:35) 2. Nadie Te Tira - Ozomatli (4:48) 3. La Raiz - Radio Mundial (4:44) 4. Con Todas La Banderas - Toro Ensamble (3:42) 5. Caf? Con Sangre - Jos? Conde & Ola Fresca (4:03) 6. Charanga E-350 - The Spam Allstars (6:38) 7. Subelo - Alex Wilson (3:23) 8. Neptolio - Bambazul? (4:48) 9. Bandolera Era - Los Mocosos (4:42) 10. El Capit?n - Cuban Cowboys (4:11) 11. Desde Cuba Hasta Afghanistan - Bak? (4:11) 12. Medley: Sympathy For The Devil/El Cielo - Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez & Robby Ameen Feat. Rub?n Blades (6:40) 13. Esto Es Lo Que Hay - Los Amigos Invisibles (6:21) 14. Salsa Scratch - Rob Swift Feat. Bob James & D-Styles (4:11) 15. Wolfie's Corner (Remix) - Roberto Rodriguez Feat. Irving Fields (6:37) Price: $15.98 ? Buy Now GRUPO FOLKLORICO Y EXPERIMENTAL NUEVAYORQUINO Concepts In Unity Salsoul Originally released: 1975 Reissued: 1994 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA/SON DESCARGA EditorsPick: Limited quantities! Incredibly, Salsoul has recently discontinued their line of superb Latin reissues from the '70s. This classic is one of the more important casualties to take note of. We have a limited supply of this gem and, unless another label picks it up, once it's gone, it's gone. It is a must-have for your collection -- an important piece of Latin music history. An absolute classic, virtually impossible to find in its original double LP format (both LPs make up this single CD). Some consider these sessions, which are some of the finest examples of Afro-Cuban and Afro-Puerto Rican artistry, to be the embryo of Conjunto Libre. Manny Oquendo, Andy and Jerry Gonzalez, all Libre veterans, are central to this production. Those looking for this release were waiting for years for it to be reissued on CD. Well here it is. It's thrilling, it's lovely, and, it's a must have. Highly recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Cuba Linda (9:03) 2. Choco's Guajira (6:14) 3. Anabacoa (6:24) 4. Adelaida (4:56) 5. Luz Delja (3:07) 6. Carmen La Ronca (6:57) 7. Canto Asoyin (4:26) 8. Canto Ebioso (3:00) 9. A Papa Y Mama (7:53) 10. Iya Modupue (8:29) Price: $17.98 ? Buy Now GRUPO FOLKLORICO Y EXPERIMENTAL NUEVAYORQUINO Lo Dice Todo Salsoul Originally released: 1976 Reissued: 1998 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA: CLASSIC 1960s or 1970s NEW YORK EditorsPick: Limited quantties! They made only two recordings (this was their second), but this band has had an enormous effect on the course of Latin music as it developed in New York. (BP) Description: Back in stock! SONG TITLES: 1. Cinco En Uno Callejero (5:45) 2. Se Me Olvido (6:34) 3. Trompeta N Cuero (5:40) 4. Ao Meu Lugar Voltar (3:48) 5. Corta El Bonche (7:27) 6. La Mama (6:15) 7. Dime La Verdad (6:06) 8. Aguemimo (4:29) Price: $16.98 ? Buy Now JOHNNY VENTURA Navidad Sin Ti Combo Category: SPECIAL INTEREST; Xmas SONG TITLES: 1. Esta Navidad 2. Quisiera 3. Vamos Pa'l Campo 4. El Vecino 5. Amarga Navidad 6. Jos? Chancleta 7. Navidad Sin Ti 8. Ley Seca Price: $15.98 ? Buy Now Highlights from the previous Descarga Review LEBRON BROTHERS 4+1+1 Asulto De Familia: Homenaje En Vida A Pablo Lebr?n Live In Colombia DVD Exclusivo Originally released: 2007 Category: DVD; SALSA/SON EditorsPick: Wow! What a great live performance. This fine quality, multi-camera production of the veteran salsa band sports both superb sound and a detailed picture. The main singers for the event, Frankie V?zquez and Virgilio Hurtado do an exemplary job. But surprises were in store. There is a *seriously* extended version of "Salsa y Control" that has to be seen to believed. It's a piece of spontaneous salsa history that features not only singers V?zquez and Hurtado, but also the great Tito Nieves, Cheo Andujar, Kim De Los Santos and, pulled right out of the audience, Yuri Buenaventura. This track goes on forever, and that's not long enough: it truly embodies the very spirit of the genre. The singers, in true sonero style, take turns improvising in a manner that is rarely seen these days. I tell ya, people, there was a sense of destiny on that stage that night. The energy emanating from these guys was palpable, and made me fall in love with salsa all over again. The concert was held in celebration of Pablo Lebron, whose health appears to be failing. He suffered a heart attack in the early eighties and semi retired from the band. Towards the end of the show, there is a completely heartbreaking rendition of "Regressa a Mi" as sung by the teary-eyed patriarch from his wheelchair. I felt my own heart sink watching this. But the show is no tear-jerker: It's a thoroughly smoking set and, by far, the best Lebron Brothers DVD to date. In fact, it's clearly one of the best salsa performance DVDs of the year - a must-have for any collector. This one, folks, is... Very Highly Recommended. (BP) Description: Ha quedada plasmado en esta producion el verdadero amor y sentimiento que Los Hermanos Lebr?n sienten por su p?blico, pr la salsa y en especial por su hermano Pablo Lebr?n. El contraste de la alegria y el profundo sentimiento que se desarolla en esta noche. Estoy seguro despartaran recuerdos profundos que le har?n llorar. Le creacion de este DVD produce mes de diez l?grimas para todos los que tomamos parte en el y ahora lo queremos compartir con los salseros del mundo entero. Carlos Taborda [from the liners] SONG TITLES: 1. Llegamos 2. Temperatura/Falta 3. Mi Morena 4. Agonia 5. Dfulzura 6. Disco Bailable/Salsa Y Control 7. Regresa A Mi 8. Pena Y Dolor 9. Diez Lagrimas 10. Que Pena 11. Sin Negro No Hay Guaguanco $18.98 ? Buy Now COLON 264 Se Fue Pa'l Africa Envidia (original import) Originally released: 2007 Category: DANCE TRADITIONS; CHARANGA; CUBA EditorsPick: Man o' man, this is the bomb. It's a killer charanga descarga led by bassist Jorge Machado and backed by the venerable Envidia crew: flautist J.J. Oliveros, violinists Ronny Cabarrocas, Abilio Betancourt and Jos? P?rez "Sopil?n." Roig Sainz is on piano, Karel P?ez is the timbalero, the conguero is Mariano Enr?quez and the bongocero is Oswaldo Huerta. There are original tracks like the fiery "Si Tu Sigues As? - Se Fue P'al Africa" as well as some savory interpretations of some classics like Fajardo's "Juaniquita" and Novel's "Salsa En Nueva York." The singers are Yordani Rodriguez, Javier Rodriguez "Chocolate" and Carlos Amores. For you charanga fans, this one is a no-brainer. Get it *now*! For those of you not familiar with the genre, with its deep swing and power coros -- well, this one here's a heavy, heavy primer that will get you good and hooked. And, by the way, Col?n 264 refers to Machado's address in Havana. Very Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Hay Que Seguir Guarachando (7:20) 2. Si Tu Sigues Asi - Se Fue P'Al Africa (7:17) 3. Juaniquita (6:07) 4. Jesusito Vendiendo El Timbal (5:48) 5. En Que Quedamos (4:52) 6. Disparando En El Parue Trillo (5:55) 7. Fuego En El 23 (6:29) 8. Masculino Y Feminino (6:35) 9. Salsa En Nueva York (6:16) 10. Yo Quiero Pasar La Noche (5:32) $15.98 ? Buy Now TIRSO DUARTE Fin Del Juego Envidia (original import) Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA CUBANA; CUBA EditorsPick: Singer and pianist Tirso Duarte, along with a few others (Michel Maza comes to mind), leads the current pack of modern Timba dance bands in Cuba. Last years Timba Cubana cemented his reputation as a "hard" timba artist who is here to stay. Duarte, who wrote most of the songs for this project, including the sizzling cover track "Fin Del Juego," has an almost instantly recognizable voice -- a combination of nervous urgency and combustible energy -- that mirrors the qualities of Timba itself. It's a quality that was seen by the leaders of the high profile bands he sang for before going solo: Charanga Habanera, NG La Banda, and Pupy Y Los Que Son Son. He's made for this stuff. With bassist Pedro Pablo, conguero Yosvanlys Perez Herrera, trumpeter Frank Padron, trombonist Ulises Benavides, sax player Orestes Valido and others. Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. La Madre Maria (5:28) 2. Olvida La Pe?a (5:56) 3. Fin Del Juego (5:40) 4. Yo Soy Tu Papi (6:09) 5. Regalame La Silla (6:38) 6. El Chino Chulo (4:19) 7. La Cosa Mas Bella (5:15) 8. El Asesino (5:54) 9. Maldito Dolor (6:55) 10. Ceci (5:28) $15.98 ? Buy Now C?SAR "CHINO" P?REZ Ciudadano Del Mundo / Citizen Of The World CCP Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; VENEZUELA EditorsPick: The beautiful new release by C?sar Chino P?rez has depth of musicality and raises salsa closer to art than formula. In his first release since the 2004 Amigo Incondicional, the Venezuelan trombone player chose to sing on on number of tracks. His deep masculine voice, striking when first heard, is as much comforting as authoritative. And with arrangements by top talent like Luis "Perico" Ortiz, Ray Santos, and Ricky Gonzalez you might assume that at least some of the project would be worthwhile, sight unseen. It is. P?rez recorded the bulk of this project in New York with the assistance of some of the city's finest musicians: Ricky G. on piano, bassist Rub?n Rodr?guez, percussionists Roberto and Luisito Quintero, trombonists Reinaldo Jorge and Luis Bonilla and others. Vocally, Mr. P?rez is joined by Osvaldo Fajardo, Orlando Blanco, and Javier Plaza, fellow Venezuelan bandleader who both penned and sang the track "Dame Dos." Ciudadano del Mundo is a first-class, premium quality project that should be at the top of your list. P?rez decided to end the project with an interpretation of Dizzy Gillespie's "Groovin' High," a Latin jazz track arranged by the esteemed Alberto Naranjo, another Venezuelan bandleader with years of experience. On it, Bonilla, Gonzal?z, P?rez and Rodriguez take turns improvising solos. It's gorgeous, and something you probably won't hear on the radio. Very Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Guanteca Rica (5:54) 2. Dame Dos (4:03) 3. Perdoname (5:09) 4. La Azuquita (4:39) 5. Bolero Medley (5:34) 6. Sr. Salsa (4:35) 7. Tu Eres La Que Manda (5:59) 8. Ciudadano Del Mundo (5:23) 9. Groovin' High (5:44) $16.98 ? Buy Now JUAN PABLO BARRIOS & HIS SALSA LATIN JAZZ ...Algo Diferente American Latin Music Originally released: 2007 Category: LATIN JAZZ; LATIN JAZZ / SALSA EditorsPick: Ok, let's get specific: Algo Diferente is a full- throttle swinging salsa and mambo jazz project that dancers often pine for. Led by Venezuelan timbalero Juan Pablo Barrios, this is music that channels the Afro-Latin big band traditions of mixing the set with hot uptempo numbers, tasty rich mambos, and dance oriented jazz. The salsa tracks, like "La Rumba" and "Godin Guidon" are top notch -- some of the hottest salsa tracks you'll hear. The mambo and jazz numbers are equally well done and include a funky interpretation of Chico Corea's "Diferente." The project is retro in a good way. Barrios joins company with, say, the Big Three Palladium Orchestra, the Latin Giants of Jazz, and German Villareal who all harken to a time of artistic musicality and pure swing pleasure. Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Una Rumba 2. Mambo Juan Pa's 3. Pachanga En Changa 4. Timbalito 5. My Reviere 6. Algo Diferente 7. Godin Guidon 8. 1,2,3 9. Diferente 10. Tu Q' Va Ce? 11. Hotel By Willie 12. Cute $15.98 ? Buy Now INDIO EL SONERO JUAN JOS? HERN?NDEZ Para T? Salsero Euro Compact (original import) Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; VENEZUELA EditorsPick: Venezuelan big band leader Andy Duran is known to have top talent in his orchestra, and one of his secret weapons has always been Juan Jos? Hern?ndez, also known as Indio El Sonero. Para T? Salsero is El Indio's debut release as a leader, and the statement he's making is simple and direct: Salsa dura is alive and well. There are original tracks, like the charged title track "Para Ti Salsero" (Kleber Agelvis) and "El Indio Lleg?" penned by Hern?ndez, a composition on which El Indio claims his stake among the greats of salsa. It's a furious track that suggests we take this singer very seriously. El Indio also takes on some classics, like "Vamanos Pa'l Monte," the Eddie Palmieri/Ismael Quintana gem. I loved Yanet Tejo's violin solo on "Jardinero Del Amor," the Roberto Nodarse ritmo pachanga composition. Careful listeners will recall that this track originated with Orquesta Arag?n and was later put to action by Larry Harlow in his 1976 album of the same title. Another cover, "Moliendo Caf?" is treated as a sublime salsa with solos by violinist Tejo, vibes player Jes?s Bosque and conguero Katy Fer?ndes. The Jos? Quintero composition "La Caraque?as," about the women of Caracas, a salsa brava arranged originally by Richie Ray in 1968, is a highlight here, complete with a gritty trumpet solo by Pedrito "Cumana" Diaz. It's perfect. With arrangements and direction by Andy Duran, EL Indio has clearly succeeded in creating a memorable and powerful salsa record. Let's hope is the first of many. Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Para Ti Salsero (4:34) 2. Manatial De Corazon (4:30) 3. El Indio Llego (4:48) 4. Vamonos Pa'l Monte (8:27) 5. Jardinero Del Amor (4:28) 6. Moliendo Cafe (5:00) 7. Lo Que Pasa Contigo (3:27) 8. Las Caraque?as (5:14) 9. La Casada Infiel (4:26) 10. La Carupanera (4:23) 11. Un Cigarrito Y Un Cafe (4:49) $17.98 ? Buy Now PUERTO RICAN POWER Salsa Of The Caribbean Musical Productions Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA; PUERTO RICO EditorsPick: New big, bright and splashy salsa release from Puerto Rican Power. These guys create stadium-size sounding records whose tracks have infectious hooks and relentless rhythm. Listen to the explosive "Esa Mujer," the Pedro Jes?s D?az composition as sung by Javier Marrero. It's a tremendous steel-tank number that would be a sure thing in the hands of any smart DJ. Also, take a good listen to "Gotita a Gota" (Jorge Luis Piloto) - this one begs to be played loud. Featuring arrangements from Julio "Gunda" Merced, Alberto Barros, Carlos Torres and others, Salsa of The Caribbean is fronted by the singers Josue Rosado, Javier Marrero, Javier Marrero, and Wilfredo "Kitin" Santiago. Led by the talented trumpter Luisito Ayala, the band also boasts timbalero Tommy Oscar Villariny, trumpeter Angie Machado, pianist Jaime "Jimmy" Collazo and coroistas Nino Segarra, Primi Cruz, Luisito Carrion, Jose "Chegui" Ramos, Osvaldo Roman, Josue Rosado and Darvel Garcia. If there's such a thing as arena salsa, it would be best typified by the likes of El Gran Combo and Puerto Rican Power. Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Dame Tus Besos (3:23) 2. Esa Mujer (4:16) 3. Dime, Dame Todo (3:23) 4. No Te Puedo Olvidar (4:03) 5. Gotita A Tota (5:19) 6. Ense?ame (4:53) 7. Voy A Lograr Que Te Enamores (4:15) 8. Ella Tiene (4:08) $15.98 ? Buy Now N' KLABE La Nueva Escuela 'Nu School' Universal/Machete Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: This new pop salsa release by N'Klabe, has hormones flying every which way. The thing is, when the coro breaks in and they get to real singing -- these guys kick it ...hard. Check out their interpretation of the Lalo Rodr?guez track "Tu No Sabes Querer." It's a totally slammin' classic salsa pumped with fresh new life. At times, it would be easy to fluff off N'Klabe as a commercial boy band. Lord knows they give you enough opportunities -- with sophomoric declarations like "Girl you mean the world to me... ooo" or "That girl should have been my wife... " -- uttered from what sounds like a pimply fifteen year old. And while this may be true, it's not the whole truth. That's because for every "El Dia De Tu Suerte (Hoy)" there's a "Me Criaron Con Salsa" the Yoel Henr?quez and Jorge Luis Piloto track that is pure old school and it rocks. The cover track, "La Nueva Escuela," is an explosive salsa that offers a glimpse of what is possible. Features trombonist Alberto Barros, pianist Pablo Grajales, bassist Mike Rivera, trumpeter Dante Vargas and others. Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Si Ya No Estas 2. Tu No Sabes Querer 3. El Dia De Tu Suerte (Hoy) 4. Me Criaron Con Salsa 5. Amor De Agua 6. Tu No Le Amas Le Temes 7. No Renunciare 8. Que Hay De Malo 9. La Ultima Vez 10. La Nueva Escuela 11. Si Ya No Estas (Bilangual) Feat: R.K.M. & Ken-y (remix) $15.98 ? Buy Now FITO REINOSO Comunicaci?n Laughing Tiger Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: Cuban-born singer Fito Reinoso pushes the envelope further on Comunicaci?n, adding elements of timba ("Tu Vez") as well as Afro-Cuban folklore to his unique blend of salsa. Reinoso, based on the West Coast, has a warm, deep, voice that I would normally associate with a veteran sonero, or even an Akpwon -- a singer of Lucum? chants. For salsa, it adds a depth and dimension that a younger singer simply cannot conjure. And on timba styled tracks, the juxtaposition of Reinoso's vocals against the thick complexity of the rhythm works splendidly. This is exemplified best on the gem of a cover track, "Comunicaci?n." The contrast defines the beauty of both elements. It's a smart and sophisticated number that, for many, could be the timba sleeper of the year. Reinoso is joined here by timbalero Patricio Angulo (who is also musical director and arranger), bassist Michael Lazarus, pianist Jason Moen, trombonist Adam Theis and many others. There's a purity of spirit in Fito Reinoso's music: unpretentious and on the surface - something I find appealing. Well done, indeed. Very Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Tu Vez (4:22) 2. Orisan Paguan (6:44) 3. Comunicacion (6:41) 4. No Me Pidas Eso (6:28) 5. Se Levanta El Ni?o (4:43) 6. Pensamiento (3:03) 7. La Conoci (6:24) 8. Rumba Sin Permiso (6:35) 9. Meneito (4:08) 10. Atormentada (6:04) 11. Pueblo Mio (6:31) $15.98 ? Buy Now VARIOUS ARTISTS Tributo Urbano A H?ctor Lavoe Universal/Machete Originally released: 2007 Category: POP/OTHER; REGGAETON EditorsPick: What a great idea: team up the best reggaeton singers with classic H?ctor Lavoe tracks and stand back. Lavoe is both sampled and honored with this tribute that includes Don Omar, Angel Y Khriz, Hector "El Father," Gallego, La Sista and others. For the dance club, it rocks. It's modern and hip, with a knowing wink to classic Fania salsa. It's like Run DMC's Aerosmith tribute "Walk This Way" for the reggaeton-salsa crowd. Except, of course, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry were alive and participated. Hmm, I guess it's not exactly like that. It's pretty cool nonetheless. Check out Lavoe with La Sista on "Todopoderoso" - real nice. I like this project a lot. Highly Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Gallego - Intro 2. El Cantante - Hector Lavoe With Don Omar 3. Mi Gente - Hector Lavoe With Angel Y Khriz 4. Triste Y Vacia - The Dey 5. La Fama - Hector Lavoe With Hector "El Father" 6. Ella Montoo - Hector With Mu 7. Todopoderoso - Hector Lavoe With La Sista 8. Paraiso De Dulzura - Margo Vi 9. Todo Tiene Su Final - Dalmata 10. Mentira - Tres Coronas 11. Timbalero - Hector Lavoe With Gallego 12. Calle Luna Calle Sol - Locos Por Juana 13. Songoro Cosongo - Don Chezina, Rey Piron, Maiocol, Alberto $15.98 ? Buy Now JIMMY BOSCH Jimmy Bosch Y Su Masacote Jam - DVD JRGR Records Originally released: 2007 Category: DVD; SALSA/SON EditorsPick: Here's a compilation of footage taken from live performances that took place in New York, Slovenia, Belgium, France, and California. Unfortunately low quality mars what could have been a good snapshot of exciting live performances. The upside is that some of the best musicians are represented here: Willie Rodriguez, Alfredo Rodriguez Jr., Papo Vazquez, Louie Bauzo, George Delgado, Chocolate Armenteros, Frankie Vazquez, Eddie Montalvo, Richie Bastar, Joe Santiago and a slew of others, too. Of special note is footage of two late, great musicians: Mauricio Smith on flute and sax and Mario Rivera playing tenor and soprano sax. For that last reason alone... Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Descargarana (8:34) 2. Pa Mantener Tradicion (10:30) 3. Gaviota (12:42) 4. Sigo Cambiando (9:58) 5. Cha Cha Gabriel (7:47) 6. Canta Mi Mozambique (9:06) 7. Erben On The Phone (11:10) 8. Crisisde Identidad (9:43) 9. Jimmy's Brass Jam (6:07) 10. La Cacharra Jam (5:20) 11. Descargarana Jam (10:11) 12. Un Poquito Mas (7:20) 13. Vengo De Amor (8:27) $21.98 ? Buy Now FABIAN Necesito Alguien - Pura Salsa Fabian/Musicameasy Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA EditorsPick: From Miami, a new pop salsa release by singer Fabian who is also joined by Jay Lozada on the track "Por Ella." The power-track "Que Forma" is destined for the dance club. With trombonist Alberto Barros, congueros Douglas Guevara and Richard Bravo, Dante Vargas on trumpet, coroistas Kevin Ceballo, Willy Torres, Guianko Gomez and others. Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Alguien Que Tu Amor Me Quite 2. Que Forma 3. Por Ella (a Duo Con Jay Lozada) 4. Vuelve 5. Ya Te Olvide 6. Como Tito (Lo Toco) 7. Donde Andaras 8. La Historia De Tu Vida $15.98 ? Buy Now MAELO RUIZ ...Puro Coraz?n Codiscos (original import) Originally released: 2007 Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA COLOMBIA EditorsPick: New salsa release by Maelo Ruiz recorded in Colombia. Ruiz' salsa is always dependable, with drive and robust delivery. And while Mr. Ruiz is often lyrically romantic, musically the tracks are harder than that, with a tight fist of a coro section and trumpet driving power. With Sergio Munera, Alvaro Cabarcas "Pelusa," Diego and Jimmy Gale, Herman "Tato-Tatin", Morist Jimenez and others. Recommended. (BP) SONG TITLES: 1. Culpable O No 2. Y Es Por Ti 3. No Me Digas Que Te Vas 4. Aroma De Mujer 5. Amor No Me Ignores 6. Amiga 7. He Vuelto Por Ti 8. Muero De Amor 9. Entregate 10. Y Si Ella No Vuelve 11. La Unica 12. Sin Corazon 13. Mentiras Que Matan 14. Vino Para Mi Copa $15.98 ? Buy Now END OF YEAR CHARANGA BLAST! It's time for our annual charanga explosion. If you've already been infected with the rich, driving, dance grooves of charanga, here's your chance to stock up! For the newbies who aren't yet familiar with this intoxicating Afro-Cuban flute and violin based music, you are in for a real treat. This year, we've expanded the listing to include charanga-tinged salsa, cha-cha-ch? and danz?n too! 15% off 280 different titles. Hurry, sale ends January 9th! Significant links... ? Recent the most current Editor's Picks Reviews ? Read the Descarga's Best of 2007 ? The new wave of remastered classic FANIA reissues ? The complete 2007 Descarga Update Archives: 2007 ? 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 Help a friend to subscribe: If you know someone who is interested, please let them know that they should send a message with "subscribe" as the Subject to Descarga-Announce-request at descarga.com To Unsubscribe: Please send a message with "unsubscribe" as the Subject to Descarga-Announce-request at descarga.com Descarga.com 328 Flatbush Ave., Suite 180 Brooklyn, NY 11238 Descarga.com The world's greatest resource for tropical Latin music http://www.descarga.com ? Copyright 2008, Descarga.com. All rights reserved. Use of any editorial content and/or images originating from this website is strictly prohibited without the expressed permission of Descarga.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mail.descarga.com/pipermail/descarga-announce/attachments/20080104/825cec87/attachment.htm