CD REVIEWS

by DJ El brujo del Ritmo Baile

SABROSO Y SAOCO RAY RAMOS

Yet another cd full of dance tracks from the maestro Ray. So many tracks here it is hard to pick my favourite, but i love the one about Leal el perro rumbero. BOW WOW.

Spanish Harlem Orquesta - Un Gran Dia En El Barrio

When I first heard this one my reaction was Phew!!! This is a top class CD, Go buy it now. A real gem for any collection.

AQUI ESTA – RAY VIERA

Now this is a definite one for you DJs and salseros that love to dance. A CD packed full of swing and sabor. Buy it when you see it, you will not be disappointed.

DE UNA VEZ GOZANDO – LA SONORA CARRUSELES 

Yes they are back wit their latest offering of salsa and boogaloo numbers. While not quite as good as ‘Salsa Brava’ or ‘Heavy Salsa’, this CD is a good offering.

Sonora Carruseles are riding on a wave and you cannot help but get into the swing with them.

ORQUESTA ARNEZ - ORQUESTA ARNEZ

This CD is great salsa with a capital S. Sent to me by a friend in Latin America recently, I could not believe salsa this good was still available. Tight fiery rhythms with timbale solos danceable tunes, hear it to believe it

SIN MIEDO – MEL

When I first opened this package and saw the CD cover I wondered what the hell had been delivered. However, once on the CD player I was a rockin’ from track 2 onwards .I like this release and it’s worth checking out

SALSA CON GOLPE 11 – QUINTO MAYOR

Once again the venerable Diego Gale has come up with some excellent direction. Old tunes with a modern approach by some excellent musicians. This is pure magic for me. recommended

SALSA PA’L BAILADOR – JOHNNY POLANCO

Have been playing this for some weeks now as I managed to get hold of an early release copy. The man who gave us La Receta and other good dance tracks is back. This CD is just what the doctor ordered, with some excellent dance cuts.Check out ‘Me Voy Pa’ Colombia’.

SOY MONTUNO – JESUS ALEJANDRO

A good array of tunes here, some being good dance tracks. Overall it is worth a look but buy JP before this if you are on a limited budget.

SALSA PA TODO EL MUNDO – RAY & SAMMY

An excellent outing from Colombia for these two guys. Put on the deck and lets dance. Tracks off this CD have not failed at a venue since last December. Buy It!

CUANDO VIVAS CONMIGO – JUNIOR TOLEDO

This is so HOT, I almost burnt my fingers. Track 4 has a brilliant timbale exchange between players. A must have for the dancers who love to shine.

AFRICANDO LIVE – AFRICANDO

Recorded in Paris, this is a great performance. Obviously full of dance tracks which swings along on this 2 CD set

HISTORIA MUSICAL – THE LATIN BROTHERS

A compilation of their best stuff, which is a rich blend of Colombian salsa.

Some danceable and some not, but a good CD to have.

LIVE 50th ANNIVERSARY – RAY BARRETTO

Recorded in Puerto Rico ray celebrates 50 years in the business.

All salsa cuts are put into extended descarga style which makes them hot.

REMEMBRAS – LOS SONEROS DEL BARRIO

Frankie Vasquez is back, but unfortunately without Martin Arroyo who sadly died shortly after their last release. However, pianist Ricky Gonzalez has taken over and does an excellent job on the ivories. This is definitely New York Salsa Dura.

LA NEGRA TIENE TUMBAO – CELIA CRUZ

Salsa ain’t what it used to be. The same here for Celia. her last outing was well below par and this is not much better. However it is better produced and more enjoyable.

Check out ‘Tararea kumbayea’ which is definitely the best track, provided by Johnny Pacheco.

HAVANA NIGHTS – GABINO PAMPINI

Cuba meets Colombia via the master of salsa Snr Gabino Pampini. Some really good dance tracks here with other tracks being listenable fillers.

Best track for me is ‘Marietta’.

HISTORIA MUSICAL – SANTIAGO CERON

This is the best compilation from this artistes works. He has previously worked with Arsenio Rodriguez and Pete ‘el condez’ Rodriguez among others, turning out really fine salsa.

ESTA SI VA – DESCARGA BORICUA

A 2 CD set of a joining of some of Puerto Ricos finest talent. This is top rate tropical music and latin jazz, full of instrumental and vocal gems.

ORQUERSTA HURRICAN – ORQUESTA HURRICAN

This is a UK latin band which I have seen perform twice, and they have certainly improved along the way. During their live performance, they are able to keep the crowd dancing with a variety of songs from the greats ‘Lloraras', 'Lagrimas Negras', Esa Negra' (Mandinga) etc. to a version of ‘50 Ways to Leave Your Lover’, brilliant.

Currently available is a five track CD from them and it is worth every penny of £5.00 pounds.

Go to see them play, buy their CD and give support to some excellent musicians.

They can be contacted via the following address: info@oh-latinmusic.com

LLEGA PERO NO TE PASES – SON CANDELA

Well for me this is a fine CD. There are some good dance tracks yet, for the midlands crowd, they do not respond to Cuban timba music. Included in the line up are special guests from Los Van Van and the late but legendary Raul Planas. For timba lovers I suggest that you buy this CD now as you will not be disappointed. However, for the midlands people, they need to be educated a little more.

SALSA HITS – SON BY FOUR

Not my cup of tea, however this boy band can turn out a good song that is danceable and listenable.

A good selection of their works for the boy band and romantica lovers.

WILD WILD SALSA – PUERTO RICAN POWER

They have done it again. An excellent and very infectious dance CD from one of my favourite grupos.

The first track ‘Pena De Amor’ is the track of the moment with another 6 good dance tracks to back it up. If you ain’t got it yet, then hurry.

EL MEJOR: HOMAGE A PAP SECK – AFRICANDO

A 16 track compilation of their best works. If you ain't got any Africando then buy this one. Unfortunately does not include ‘Aicha’.

TRAIGO TE TRAIGO – PACHITO ALONSO

This is a good dance release from Pachito, after a long break. These are pure timba cuts, so will suit you modern Cuban music buffs.

ANDITO ANDANDO – ALEJANDRO RODRIGUEZ

A good interpretation of son releases here, very up tempo. This cd swings with style and verve.

SALSA AFROCUBANO – OSVALDO CHACON

More timba from the former lead singer with Bamboleo. This is a finely produced and executed Cuban timba release. This is highly recommended by timba lovers.

Los New Yorkiños! - Manny Oquendo & Libre

If you're a Latin music fan then this is a reasonable buy. One or two nice tracks. Most notable for myself was Cuando Se Acabara, a bolero. The female vocalist, Xiomara Lougart has lovely throaty sound to her voice.If you're after a cd for dance tracks then don't bother. There's one reasonable dance track that I might play in a club and that's the first one, 'Oquendo Y Libre'.

Louie Ramirez & Sus Amigos - Louie Ramirez

Classic late 70's stuff, whether you'll like it or not will depend on if you like music from this era. There's a very nice Latin jazz version of George Harrison's 'Something' that is nice to dance to if you like your music instrumental. The album is finished off with 'Salsa Vibes' another jazz track featuring wicked Vibe solos by Louie Ramirez. If you're a normal everyday type club dancer I say you probably wouldn't like it but for myself the two jazz tracks were worth the price of the cd.

Salsa, Exitos De Oro - Leavitt Y Su Orquesta

It was cheap, not too my taste really a couple of tracks I might play when I'm bored and need a change. Not more to say.

No Te Quites La Ropa - Pedro Conga Y Su Orquesta Internacional

Pedro Conga seems to specialise in very iffy covers to his CD's and this one is no exception. The album itself has 8 tracks all of which are medium paced and are quite danceable. They've got a nice soft edge to them. They don't jump off the decks and make you want to dance immediately but they sort of coax you there over time. A good cd to dance to if you don't fancy whizzing about the floor at 90mph but still don't want to dance to the 'Romantica' stuff.

Skin and Bones - Johnny Blas and his Latin Jazz

Released 1997 and I've just got around to purchasing it. The cd opens with a top track 'Los Huesos' as far as I'm concerned makes the whole cd worthy of the asking price. There are 3 other excellent dance tracks which will appeal to the dancers who like it instrumental and hot. Track 11, 'Black Bean Power' features kicking trombone and piano solos. If you like your dancing full of jazz and brass then you'll love it, if you don't buy it as an education for your ears.

Mambo Jazz - Bobby Matos and John Santos

Despite it's title not a dance album. Not one track I'd choose to dance to and I like my music jazzy. Having said that I love this album to listen to. There is one track that needs to be mentioned, 'I don't Speak Spanish' who's words are s a poem entitled 'Mambo!' by Tarabu B Kirkland set to music. The poem tries to sum up why we as non Spanish speakers can be so caught up in Latin music and dance.

Jay Lozada - Jay Lozada

A good looking bloke (or so my female friends say!), an excellent voice that has a tinge of Victor Manuelle. His debut album and I'm certain it won't be his last. Some excellent dance tracks to suit all styles. The album opens with a blinder of a track, 'Por Amarte Así' that displays the power of his vocals. Even the couple of tracks that are not danceable are well worth listening to. One of my top ten albums.

DIFERENTE - JOSE ALBERTO

Another very good album from a man who is probably the best true Sonero still recording. His albums never fail to please. As always there's loads of dance tracks his voice and musical arrangement always go down well in clubs. Unlike his previous albums I don't think there's one track that stands out above the rest but if I had to pick my favorite it would be 'Quiero Salsa' or perhaps 'Ya No Quiero Tu Querer'. If you're a fan of the man then buy it, if your not then buy it, you won't be disappointed.

Nuevo milenio - el mismo sabor - El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico

One of my top 5 albums. Not a weak track on the whole album. If you're on a budget or just starting a collection then this cd is a must. The Combo through out the cd delivers a tight, bright sound. There are no tracks that I wouldn't dance to and at least 3 tracks that I'd just have to dance to. Favorite track? Mmm difficult, probably track 2, 'Se Nos Perdio El

Amor'Eso Me Gusta - Pedro Conga Y Su Orquesta Internacional

This is the latest release from this established band. Why we don't hear more of them in the clubs I don't know. Perhaps most DJ's have never got to hear them. The album is made up of 8 medium tempo tracks which for the most part are danceable, all of which make you nod your head along to them. There are no dance floor emptiers. My favorites are track 2, 'Ven Conmigo CorazLos Amigosón' and track 5, 'Si Se Quiere Ir, Que Se Vaye'. Both of these will get an airing the next time I'm out in public.

Los Amigos - Alex Leon & Nino Segarra

Both these guys have good voices and together they work very well. The cd has 15 tracks all of which are medium pace and for the most part danceable. There are a couple of dodgy tracks but 2 out of 15 ain't bad. There isn't one track on the album which is memorable, having said that there's a good number of tracks I'd play at a club. Favorite tracks; 7, 'Soy Isleno' and 13, 'Cara De Inocente'.

Salsa Hits - Son by Four

The boy band of the Salsa World. The cd opens with 'A Puro Dolor' a nice enough track but not one that I'd desperately want to dance to. In fact that sums up the entire album - 'nice'. Not the Salsa Dura/Latin Jazz I prefer so the cd is not really my bag. Favorite track would have to be the R&B number 'With You'. I think these guys would do well on the normal pop market.

EXITOS DE VICTOR MANUELLE – VICTOR MANUELLE

The young salsero is back with a compilation of his best works. If you missed other Cds by Victor Manuelle but have danced to the tracks, then don’t miss this one.

ROMPIENDO NOCHES – TITO ROJAS

Tito has an unmistakeable voice which once again comes through on this cut. Some excellent dance tracks and one coupled with bachata. This guy will experiment.

MERENGUE EN LA CALLE OCHO 2000 – VARIOUS

Another compilation offering. If it’s your style then this merengue cut is for you. Strange how some clubs in the UK play loads of merengue and others purely salsa. Personally I prefer the MFZ.

GRANDES EXITOS – JOE ARROYO

One of the masters from Colombia. Joe has been around for a long time and turned out some excellent cuts. This is no exception. If you want Rebellion, Suava Bbruta, P’al Bailador and others, buy it.

LO MEJOR DE ORQUESTA BROADWAY

This is a great compilation. Be warned it is total charanga at its best.

DE COSTA A COSTA - MARIANO CIVICO

This 15 track cd has some good and not so good material. While not appealing to my taste fully, it contains a fine array of dance tracks which is what salsa is all about, having fun dancing with different people. Worth a look.

ASI ASI – LUIS OMAR

The title track is a belter which is right up my street. A real uptempo fireball of rythmns and percussion with the ever present piano. For this track alone it is worth having. The rest of the material falls into the romantica arena.

LA SALSA VERDA – ORQUESTA TABACO Y RON

A cd full of cover version material, but what a fine outing for this orquesta. Some excellent covers of tunes such as Lloraras, El Sonero Del Barrio and others. For non-stop dancing stick this on the player start to move.

AFRO CUBAN ALLSTARS PRESENT FELIX BALOY

OK, I have made it quite clear that Cuban music is not my thing. However, this cd has some really good dance tracks on it and it’s available at any good record store in the UK.

LLEGO LA LEY – RAULIN ROSENDO

A cd from 1998 but a good one. Check out ‘Que Nadie Sepa Mi Sufrir’ what a track. With so many fine songs from this Dominican, can you afford not to have this one.

SALSA EN EL CARNAVAL MIAMI – VARIOUS

This is a twelve track CD with only two duff cuts. Some excellent material from Sonora Carruseles, Fruko and others. A good one to have in the collection for the dancers.

SALSAHITS 2001 – VARIOUS

Yes another compilation of various salsa tunes. Three duff tracks on this from the dancers point of view but well worth a look. Check out El Apartamento.

BEST OF ANGEL CANALES – ANGEL CANALES

This guy has turned out some excellent cuts over the years. You should check out the fantastic track ‘ El Cantante Y La Orquesta’. The only problem with this CD is the tracks recorded live. Yes they are full of energy, but the crowd cheers put you off a bit. However, for the other six tracks this is worth being in your collection.

GOZALO MI GENTE – LOS BRAVOS DE LA ESQUINA

What a really good unknown grupo these are. Some good tight dance tracks and the rest very listenable. A must have for me.

NONSTOP DOBLE EXITOS – RAULIN ROSENDO

Exactly what it says. Two CDs packed with full version non-stop music. Some good some excellent. If you are into Puerto Rican style then this is for you.

SALSA CALIENTE DE NU YORK – RAY BARRETTO

If you are into the Fania type of salsa then this is a must for you. Some excellent dance tracks from an old hand. What's more it is available in all good record stores in the UK.

THE BEST OF FANIA ALLSTARS – 2 CD SET

Wow even more of the same type of stuff. Best track for me and a floor filler, is ‘Me Gusta El Son’ just pure magic even if the recording sounds a bit dated. For collectors this is a purchase to be made.

SALSA EN LA CALLE OCHO 2001 – VARIOUS

They are here again. A selection of salsa tracks which you either love or hate. personally I’m fed up with them as they usually contain tracks from varying years, but still some people love this sort of compilation. I still believe that the 1998 and 1997 were the best two in this series.

SALSA EN LA CALLE STREET MIX - VARIOUS

Ouch!!! what garbage. If you are tripped out on acid then get it. For sane people forget it ever existed.

MALO CANTIDAD – CARLOS MANUEL

This guy may be at #1 in the charts in Cuba, but for you who like dancing forget this one. The Cubanos have invented their own dance to go with the first track, birdie song comes to mind. For me there are three tracks worth listening to and the rest for the bin. One review I read actually raved up on this cd obviously not a dancer.

DOBLE PLAY – OSCAR D’LEON & VLADIMIR

If you like the old stuff then this is for you. Oscar uses his vocal talent to the full as one would expect. No dance tracks here but worth having.

SIEMPRE VIVIRE – CELIA CRUZ

Well the queen of salsa as some call her has certainly turned out some garbage here. If you liked Gloria Gayners version then you will hate this one and if you hated Glorias version then you will loathe this. Give it a wide berth.

CON EL MISMO SWING – GRUPO GALE

Quiero agradecer al Snr Diego Gale para su musica, que me da mucho gusto y tanta alegria. Gracias a La Familia Gale y a todos los musicos.

I have been playing this cd since last October and wow what a floor filler it is. So, why have I not reviewed it before now. Well its too good for some of you woosies out there. This is Colombian at its best from the master behind many other projects which are in my possession and may never review. But not to tell you about this cd or any other is against my religion. So go out and buy it now. Use the link at the top of the page to Tropimusic and you can have one in 3 days.

PROPUESTA – GRUPO NICHE

When I first listened to this cd I was disappointed as their previous release was a must have for the discerning British salsero. However, not every Niche disc can be A Golpe De Folklore. Track one and track two are good cha chaas and the last track a good salsa dancer. The rest between is good old stuff to sing along to eg: pero que bonito y sabroso bailan el mambo… now I am getting carried away.

MONTUNIANDO – LOS NEMUS DEL PACIFICO

Hey if you aint got any Los Nemus stuff then get turned on by this set of fifteen montunos and salsa tunes. This grupo have been going since 1987 and rank in my top five all time greats. You cannot stay in your seat when you hear the voice of Alex Murillo and the rest of the crew.

AMAR ES ALGO MAS – PEDRO JESUS

This is something else. This guy really has something here and the tunes are well produced and great to dance to. My favourite is track three ‘Quiero Darte Todo’.

INSTINTO Y DESEO – VICTOR MANUELLE

Victor is always consistent and will not disappoint his fans with this release. I am not really a fan of his but you have to think of the dancers you are playing for and not use the night as a personal musical trip.

SON BORICUA - SON BORICUA

If you like something a bit different then try out this cd. Not your usual salsa cuts with heavy brass etc but full of vibraphone, bass and congas. Some really good dance tracks which are a welcome break from the norm.

AZABACHE - AZABACHE

A little known band out of New York. If NY style is your bag then buy this cd as soon as you see it. There is a fiery track called Batman & Spiderman which starts with vocal and drums then bursts into a frenzy for uptempo dance lovers. Even the part English tracks are good. Montuno Street being one of them.

GUITARRA Y TAMBO - GUYACAN

Guyacan, now there's a name. Usually, I am not personally amiable toward the output of Guyacan but there is always an exception to the rule. Hailing from Colombia then you cannot fail to have some good music in you. This cd proves that with some excellent dance tracks to please the most difficult of dancers.

ENTREGA - GEORGE LAMOND

Not really my kind of music, as it is too much boy zony for me. Approx 4 dance tracks on a 9 track cd with video viewable on your computer. Usually pleases the NY lover of salsa romantica. Me, I'll stick with the Colombian thank you.

LOS EXITOS vol 2 - PUERTO RICAN POWER

A group to be on everyone's shelf along with El Gran Combo. For most of this cd PRP are fronted by Tito Rojas, yes you know the voice, but for me it is a middle of the road cut. Best track is 'Se Acabo' which never fails to get the dancers going.

BOBBY'S BEST - BOBBY VALENTIN

This cd is old and I mean old. Just listen to the cuts such as 'Pobre Soy' or 'Huracan' and you can see where the salsa music of today comes from. A brilliant cd from Fania including some excellent dance tracks.

AL MANDO - LOS GENERALES

Merengue at its best. This cd is brilliant. Check out 'Cali Pachangero',you should recognise the music straight away as Grupo Gale 's Ven A Medellin, it rattles along like a steam train, the only salsa track on the cd. As said before some excellent Merengue on here also.

EL SONERO DEL BARRIO - OSCAR RIZO

A while back I reviewed the same track by two New Yorkers. However if you want the real deal then this is the cut to have. Re-issued and available from CDNOW. Oscar Rizo is in fine form with this title track which is a brilliant dance floor filler. Included on the cd are at least another four dance tracks. Colombian music at its best, originally from 1992.

THE BEST OF MANU DIBANGO

if you are into sax (not sex I said SAX) then try this for only £7.99. It spans forty years of this brilliant musician. Not dance tracks but good background music with a difference. One or two tracks are very seventies but worth putting up with for the rest.

JOHN ARMSTRONG PRESENTS BIG SALSA - VARIOUS

Yet another compilation of salsa stuff. Big John states in his write up with the cd that he is into salsa dura and gives his description of this. Hmmm, some of the included material doesn't seem to match the criteria. No matter, as well as the usual couple of duff tracks, there are a whole host of good tracks included. Rey Ruiz is included (he one of my favourites) and check out the Orlando Poleo track Cimarroneando Dos' wow it's a killer. Also on there is DLG the excellent Joe Arroyo and well.... buy it and try it. It's worth the money.

OXFAM SALSA - VARIOUS

Oxfam what!! Do not scoff. If you aint got this at £7.99 then the jokes on you. Read the track listing and you already know that for the price you cannot do better. Check out Yolando Rayo 'Salsa Con Sabor', Africando, and others. Also when you buy this, you will be doing your bit to help Oxfam. Don't delay go and buy it right away.

ARRANCANDO - MERENGADA

The first cd from this international line up of artistes based in London is OK. I am not a merengue man but the tracks on this cut certainly get me going. They are some of the finest you will ever here outside of the Dominican Republic. Also included is their version of 'No Woman No Cry' along with three other salsa tracks, one being a remix. Verdict is it is worth buying. A good outing for the first cut.

LO SALSERO DE......... JOE ARROYO Y LA VERDA
 this one for Bruce

Another great disc from Disco Fuentes, this time on a French label No SPCD-049. Some of Joe's best tracks are on this compilation cd ie: Yamulemau, Rebelion, Por Ti No Morire, Co Gusto y Gana and of course Pa'l Bailador. What can you say about something like this except that any collection should have a copy, and what about the track 'Mary'. Just buy it.

URBAN SALSA - STREET SWING WITH LUIS ALBERTO

I am am still undecided about this one. There are a few good dance tracks and some really good listening stuff but, it doesn't grab me as it should. The production is superb, perhaps I need to play it more and it will grow on me. For you, you will have to listen and decide. If you have money to spare then buy it, if not buy something else.

ROMANTIC SALSA CLASSICA - VARIOUS

Seventeen tracks of damn good salsa romantica from artistes such as Sabrosura, Los Titanes, Latin Brothers and many others. It contains some good dance material and tracks for just relaxing too. A welcome change from the grab your feet and hit the floor music.

LO MAS SABROSO - THE LATIN BROTHERS

This is first class material. For some the sound may take a bit of getting used to as it is a step away from what your conventional dance salsa is like. Having said that, do not be put off as this cd has some excellent tracks 'Lo Bailo Y Lo Gozo' and 'El Talisman' to name only two. With the vocals of Macondo (the voice of Colombia) and of course Gabino Pampini this cut should be in your collection.

EN VIVO - OSCAR D'LEON

A double LIVE cd from the all time master Oscar D'Leon. A good assortment of tracks from this excellent showman should prove delightful to all. It even includes Voy Pa Cali one of his greatest dance tracks and the well known LLoraras (the Los Nemus version of LLoraras is definitely worth checking out). If you have no Oscar cuts in your collection then buy this one.

MIS PROBLEMAS - GABINO PAMPINI

Yes, Disco Fuentes have yet another great sonero gracing their label. If you love salsa to listen or dance to then you must buy this cd. This guys voice is one which haunts you and the title track 'Mis problemas' is a definite dance floor filler, without fail. Even the bolero included on this disc is likeable. As soon as the first track starts you cannot fail to recognise the voice of the man fronting many other grupos ie; Grupo Gale, Latin Brothers etc. Don't hesitate, put this one in your collection. Available from tropimusic.

SALSA DANCE CLASS the real deal - VARIOUS

Well, after waiting a whole year since this cd was supposed to be released it has finally hit the shops. So what about it. No disrespect to Dave Hucker (the man behind this compilation) but why is it that British compilations of salsa tunes never seem to hit the bullseye. Compare any British compilation with CDs such as 'Ultra Mix the best of Salsa' and you will see what I mean. Maybe we have greater difficulty in obtaining recording permission from the respective label companies involved. That said, Dave has put together some really good stuff amongst the mediocre. Wayne Gorbea, Merengada and Conjunto Yumari to name a few. Verdict is, that for under a tenner it's worth having. If you like Daves' choices, then check out his venue 'The Sunday School' in London on, of course, sundays. (see venue listings)

VUELVE LA SALSA CON GABINO PAMPINI

That man again. This time with a compilation of songs which you most probably have heard or danced to. The cd consists of tracks from various artists where Senor Gabino Pampini takes lead vocals and he does not disappoint. Check out 'Cuerpo de Guitarra' or 'Lejos de Ti' and 'La Tormenta'etc., I could list them all. Just check it out and you will realise what good stuff this man has been involved with. The tango songs done in salsa style are worth paying particular attention to. I know that one of these tracks is played at La Finca and it always fills the floor with los bailadores.

POWER SALSA - FRUKO Y SU TESOS

This cd is hot off the molding machine and thanks to tropimusic (link at top of the page) I have a copy. You cannot beat service like that. This has got to be the best music that Fruko has produced since El preso. The tracks are in the usual Fruko style but hard hitting which makes you want to dance. Tracks like 'Cali De Rumba' and 'El Swing De Fruko' are to die for. Vocalists included on the cd as well as Saoko are Harold and with his unmistakeable voice, Gambino Pampini. This cd is a definite must have for all you salseros out there. Long live Disco Fuentes and long live tropimusic. Get your copy from them now.

YO SOY - YURI BUENAVENTURA

Yes, the man that brought you Herencia Africana has released a new cd and as usual he does not disappoint. This cut is a combination of mostly salsa, with cumbia, plena, gurruiao and latin jazz. If you like a good mixed bag then you will be happy with this.

SIEMPRE UNA AVENTURA - GRUPO NICHE

Ah yes! another compilation cd from my favourite grupo. The only trouble is that you really get bogged down with the same tracks on this sort of compilation cd. However, if you want a good variety of Grupo Niche tracks then this is for you. For me it is in the cd player in the car.

AFRO CUBAN JAZZ - SNOWBOY AND THE LATIN SECTION

If you have seen this UK band live then you already know how good they are. Just one or two tracks are danceable, but this cd is latin jazz made for listening to or for jazz dancers. A good set put together and played admirably by Snowboy. If you are into latin jazz give it a whirl. Available at all good record stores in the UK.

ISIDRO INFANTE & LA ELITE - ISIDRO INFANTE

This man I really like. Not a new release but a re-issue. This doesn't mean that the tracks are old garbage, far from it. This cd consists of some excellent work from the man who produces many other great salsa singers you all know. Check the credits on your cd collection and you will find his name alongside artistes such as India and Oscar D'Leon etc. Although a re-issue it is well worth putting in the collection. Tracks like 'Estoy Jugando Con Fuego' and 'Buscando Una Excusa' are just two which I play occasionally and they never fail to fill the dance floor.

MORE GRIP - SIDESTEPPER

This cd is an unusual combination of Latin American rhythms mixed with UK style club grooves. The result is some pretty good tracks worth getting into. The man behind this project has lived in Colombia so fully understands what he is doing with the Latino thing. Definitely worth a listen.

SALSA BRAVA - SONORA CARRUSELES

I'm a bit late reviewing this cd as I have been playing tracks from it for at least 9 weeks and they certainly fill the floor at the Derby venue on Tuesday nights.

Once again this grupo of musicians has produced a very danceable compilation of tunes comprising of no less than 5 mosaicos. For me the top tracks are 'Que Suene Mi Campana' and 'Mosaico 5'. But the whole cd is fantastic just like Heavy Salsa was. So who is behind this grupo. Well it all started in 1994 when Marion Rincon proposed the project to Disco Fuentes, the first release being Espactacular and since then the line up has gone from strength to strength culminating in the last two superb Cds. Headed by none other than Diego Gale (Grupo Gale fame) and Mario Rincon two very prominent musicians this album is irresistable to all the bailadores around the world.

SIN TU AMOR - LUISITO CARRION

If you are not into Puerto Rican music, you will be after hearing this work of art. This is a cd for dancers and salsa romantica lovers, being salsa at its most catchy and will have you on the dance floor immediately. The two tracks which are really astounding are La Chica Mas Popular and Amiga Mia. This cd will go down in history. Buy it before you get left behind

HABLANDO DEL AMOR - TONY VEGA

At last something new from Tony vega and he doesn't disappoint either. The tracks have been well selected and once again are for dancers and romantica lovers alike. Check out 'Me Voy' a superb dance track but then again it is difficult to choose the best one as they are all very good. Tony, good luck and keep up the quality like this cd.

LOS SONEROS DEL BARRIO -
MARTIN ARROYO AND FRANKIE VASQUEZ

Salsa dura seems to be quite the in thing at the moment. I had trouble sourcing this cd, (yes I have to buy mine like you do. Nobody sends me freebies).

The first track 'Sonero del Barrio' is a retake on the Oscar Rizo original which is pretty good with jazz piano. The whole cd is a concoction of New York salsa which should delight all you salsa dura afficiendos.

SABOREANDO - WAYNE GORBEA & SALSA PICANTE

Did you see this band when they toured the UK last year, if not you missed one of the best New York dance bands around. You will certainly have danced to tracks from their last offering Cogel El Gusto, still available from normal outlets,  and this cd is just as good. They have taken straight up old school New York style salsa and added a contemporary feel, making this an attractive buy for dancers and salsa dura lovers. Excellent with stars.

A GOLPE DE FOLKLORE - GRUPO NICHE

OH WOW!!!  A cd from my favourite group. 8 really good dance tracks delivered in the usual Niche hard hitting salsa style. The wait for this cd was well worth it. Track three, Han Cogido La Cosa (you got the thing) is outstanding as it storms along breaking into a rap part way through, a real hit on the dance floor. If like me this is your style of salsa then seek it out from specialist shops, you will not be disappointed.

CUBA LIBRE - WILLIE CHIRINO

Willie is one of Miami's favourites but to be honest does not really appeal to my taste. Contained on this cd are various cuban music styles which don't do a great deal for me. By far the best track on this cd is Cuba Que Lindos Son Tus Paisajes duetted with Celia Cruz. The rest is music to iron your shirts to.

BAILAME vol II - VARIOUS

Compilation CDs are always a hit or miss affair, promising to deliver the goods and missing the mark. This cd however is not of that ilk. RMM offer 12 tracks full of danceable hits from last year, which you will definitely recognise instantly. Celia Cruz, Oscar D'Leon, Isidro Infante are among the artistes here. RMM certainly know what they are doing. Well worth buying.

SALSA Y FUEGO - SONORA CARRUSELES

I like this group but this cd left me cold. Two good tracks appealed  but the rest was, for me, very leavable. I believe that many British salsa fans will be of the same opinion, so spend your money elsewhere.

HEAVY SALSA - SONORA CARRUSELES

Now this is where you should spend your money. A cd packed full of excellent bdanceable salsa. All you dancers out there will have twirled to Al Son de los Cueros and Mosaico Boogaloo. The other tracks are up to the same quality also. A cd which should not be missed by anyone who loves salsa.

CUBAN MUSIC

As far as Cuban stuff goes, I am not a fan. For me Cuban music is too
well, Cuban. However, there are a few Cds of this genre which are worth
having in the collection and I will review these next month.

SALSA EN LA CALLE OCHO 2000 - VARIOUS

One of these arrives every year without exception and as usual some tracks are good and others not worth holding your breath about. Overall these compilations tend to be on the commercial pop side with cheesy tracks like BonBon Azucar (UGH!!) but there is a tribute to Frankie Ruiz on there and Tito rojas who never fails to please. I firmly believe that the best year for salsa en la calle was 1997, a good vintage for salsa in general, however, to play in the background and to fill the collection file it's worth having if you can afford it. If not buy something else.

EXPRESSION - GILBERTO SANTA ROSA

This artist has produced some really good work, this disc being part of it. There are good dance tracks, two versions of Fulana and a ballad from this virtuoso. Definitely worth having.

SONY 20th ANNIVERSARY

Sony celebrated their 20th year from 1979 to 1999 and have issued a host of 20th anniversary CDs from the likes of Gilberto Santa Rosa, Victor Manuelle, Rey Ruiz, Luis Enrique, Willie Chirino and others. Each disc is packed full with 15 tracks from the artist spanning of course 20 years, if the artist has been going that long. All are definitely worth having in the collection as each is almost a best of theme and you cannot get better than that. My personal favourites are Rey Ruiz, Gilberto and the very romantica Luis Enrique.

SALSABOR - RAY SEPULVEDA

This CD is a killer with more than its fair share of dance tracks. If you like chacha then there's a track for you also. In my opinion you will not be disappointed spending your hard earned cash on this offering from the RMM stable.

SALSA FRESCA - VARIOUS

I first picked up this CD in New York and was knocked off my feet. 16 yes 16 tracks of pure danceable and listenable salsa. No doubt you will recognise many of the tunes when played. If you want value for money then this is it. Now available in the UK from Amazon and other common sources. Everyone should have this CD in their collection

NACIMIENTO Y RECUERDOS - FRANKIE RUIZ

Frankie who? Frankie the Father of Salsa. He first sang to a live audience at Club Montecarlo at the age of nine and since then has become a legend. Sadly Frankie died while recording this offering and the record company decided to turn it into a type of greatest hits which with the two new tracks should be in everyone's collection. The style is very dance oriented Puerto Rican with excellent tracks such as Mirandote, Tu Con El, Para Darte Fuego and others. For me Frankie will always be "El Sonero De Puerto Rico" (The "Sonero" of Puerto Rico) If you only buy one salsa Cd make it this one.

DESDE UN PRINCIPO (FROM THE BEGINNING) -
MARC ANTHONY

All Marc Anthony fans have been waiting for this one, a compilation of his best songs. Marc has an excellent voice and his songs stick in your head. Check out Si Te Vas or Nadie Como Ella. Danceable yes, listenable yes what more can you say except that he is writing the music score for the new British film, a romantic comedy based around salsa.