tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88924907948169036862024-03-06T03:34:31.914+00:00Llego La Musica CubanaUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-15352436833711408842009-08-06T08:41:00.006+01:002009-08-06T08:49:15.598+01:00How times change....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJc8_slNzZItglzBOlaPdkf_DnEzU072ufnmseNdW6mVgrVK5MDBiTP6Qqr8a0Zsx9DXM3bQmZ96OEIzES1y_gf5FH0q6yrGx7dqKybFIcljLieTJFru9YtWYFLnZ0hyA4iy8vUgUSnm5t/s1600-h/Photo-0587.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJc8_slNzZItglzBOlaPdkf_DnEzU072ufnmseNdW6mVgrVK5MDBiTP6Qqr8a0Zsx9DXM3bQmZ96OEIzES1y_gf5FH0q6yrGx7dqKybFIcljLieTJFru9YtWYFLnZ0hyA4iy8vUgUSnm5t/s320/Photo-0587.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366753122730313218" border="0" /></a><br />Phew! The whirlwind that is life with a new baby is calming ever so slightly now: my eyes are slightly less bloodshot, my ears more receptive and I'm coming BACK!<br /><br />My little Timba Baby is wonderful, amusing and somehow is a big fan of Adalberto Alvarez. Wonder why?....<br /><br />The world is reeling still from Mandy Cantero's departure from Los Que Son Son and I have to admit that I'm not convinced it will ever be the same again. Mind you, I said that about Salsa Mayor and the Cubanos seem to be loving them like no other!<br /><br />It's good to be back!!!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-87142019978827082432008-12-15T11:37:00.003+00:002008-12-24T11:35:21.574+00:00Timba Baby news!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZWTdGd5ZvAPQ3iabNsOHIoUKc_kSSYci4zhPo3s59cQ0lUAU62o3GMHnbLFrIk9wxSf39cB4dWYaCNztfXh7x2_dUQET2A6GhsqcKDsoQUnJWe2dJE4xzfrvHsVCDnjMEmSGkGK2IAM7/s1600-h/rafael.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZWTdGd5ZvAPQ3iabNsOHIoUKc_kSSYci4zhPo3s59cQ0lUAU62o3GMHnbLFrIk9wxSf39cB4dWYaCNztfXh7x2_dUQET2A6GhsqcKDsoQUnJWe2dJE4xzfrvHsVCDnjMEmSGkGK2IAM7/s200/rafael.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283318779512663586" border="0" /></a><br />I have been away from this page for a while and I can only send my apologies. You see there has been a little thing that has happened to distract me...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">I'm pleased to announce that I'm going to be a mummy and my little timba baby is due in April 2009</span>.<br /><br /></div>I can promise you- I've already started to educate his eardrums from the womb. Who says it's too early to start kids on hardcore timba whilst in utero?<br /><br />In the meantime, bear with me and I promise to deliver lots of yummy news, reviews and more!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-65525457247793158562008-09-28T15:57:00.005+01:002008-09-28T16:07:46.942+01:00Pupy y Los Que Son Son- Tranquilo Que Yo ControloIt was only a matter of time before I started to talk endlessly about Pupy's latest release, <a href="http://www.prodland.de/?product=CD-9756&source=home&Content=product#Detail">Tranquilo Que Yo Controlo</a>. Despite Pepitos shock decision to stay whilst on tour, the much anticipated release went ahead. <a href="http://www.prodland.de/?product=CD-9756&source=home&Content=product#Detail">Click here </a>for short samples from the album<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">WATCH THIS SPACE FOR MY REVIEW</span><br /></div><br />In the meantime, I thought I'd leave you with a track from the new album Si Me Quieres Conocer. Pepito is still in the band at this point so enjoy it for 'old times sake'!!!<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/iTxelshJk-g&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/iTxelshJk-g&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-53977244169185262322008-09-22T20:15:00.003+01:002008-09-22T20:20:01.308+01:00Quiz Time- And the answer is......Been scratching your head? I'll be really kind and put you out of your misery....<br /><br />After the surprise departure of long-standing singer Pepito, Pupy came up with what I would say is a fantastic addition. I must be honest and say that Pepito was my least fave Pupy singer (and Mandy's vocals turn my legs to jelly!!)<br />WELCOME MICHEL PEREZ, direct from Tumbao Habana. He brings the image of the band up to date and adds a bit of spark to the group.<br /><br />Want to see him in action? Here you go:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LDEVmOADzgE&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LDEVmOADzgE&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-15188671705267945162008-09-20T20:02:00.005+01:002008-09-20T20:07:48.912+01:00Quiz Time- What do these people have in common?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9OljSAGxmH0Kz2sBEffLKqQgIyjBXuXr7Vgt0t8Y5DbLvcXb36l1x71DaLCrWw7ocN7ehpDGgZb_b1f8kIbWFwRxy4x3xTO8oV77EoO5O8O4QIcneRfEx852eRqFXC2P_Zbx6y1oeqW8J/s1600-h/pupy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9OljSAGxmH0Kz2sBEffLKqQgIyjBXuXr7Vgt0t8Y5DbLvcXb36l1x71DaLCrWw7ocN7ehpDGgZb_b1f8kIbWFwRxy4x3xTO8oV77EoO5O8O4QIcneRfEx852eRqFXC2P_Zbx6y1oeqW8J/s400/pupy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248181887648057074" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP4SeQ9V7EeGrfS1wroGYHPXpzN8oqd6Yl0_LwGTfUEGl-JvfUPvccP3zAnqG3NfOgoKIrf5sGY8bvcuXSrgtB9rwwr2eECsOUru921k_nb8Pdv3yWrwmb5fAPdTj4wuF8m9bGg1A_gYRI/s1600-h/pascualito.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP4SeQ9V7EeGrfS1wroGYHPXpzN8oqd6Yl0_LwGTfUEGl-JvfUPvccP3zAnqG3NfOgoKIrf5sGY8bvcuXSrgtB9rwwr2eECsOUru921k_nb8Pdv3yWrwmb5fAPdTj4wuF8m9bGg1A_gYRI/s400/pascualito.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248181810477902018" /></a><br /><br />Need a clue?<br />Here you are then: <br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/EdnmcZbSM2o&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/EdnmcZbSM2o&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><em>Answers on a postcard!!!</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-11218402021092984202008-09-20T19:40:00.002+01:002008-09-20T19:58:23.856+01:00HOT TIP: Havana D'PrimeraIt's hardly news but I wanted to enthuse about Alexander Abreu's new orquesta "<a href="http://www.havanadprimera.com/">Havana D'Primera</a>".<br /><br />You can't imagine the joys of a matinee at <a href="http://www.egrem.com.cu/egrem/progcmusica.asp">Casa de La Musica, Havana </a>with the silky vocals of Alexander wrapping you up and carrying you through his beautiful creations. And this was how I first heard them live and fell in love. This love is bittersweet as there are currently no recordings to whet your appetites with but.....here's a few vids to make do in the meantime.<br /><br />The first gives you a litttle hint as to what he's most famous for<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wNvd-9wDDjI&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wNvd-9wDDjI&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Here's one of my faves(thanks to muchoswing.com and Cubavision)<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0gB2dhr85x4&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0gB2dhr85x4&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-37542701324828838432008-09-12T20:38:00.004+01:002008-09-12T20:41:41.086+01:00Salsa Insomnia- Brand NEW Cuban night in Northern England!<div align="center">At last, we have our AUTHENTIC, brand new Cuban night in the North of England. The only place to offer this kind of thing, we bring you the latest in Cuban tunes from the streets and clubs of Havana!!!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245221636146745106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ys3Ix9kxO-y5ps6acXBiMDd9PAyLL8ps9P07yvGedQ51JCw8CROY5yoCpK8vN-aWxIhXpM1-NS_qX6uNx-3IpA8HG6XQEOZWi844tbnl44w3DZEYqbpB5qWLX2tCKdelb7zsJ8D89uMo/s400/char+flyer.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div align="center">For a limited time, we're offering FREE ENTRY to the first 50 people. </div><div align="center">Don't miss out<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ys3Ix9kxO-y5ps6acXBiMDd9PAyLL8ps9P07yvGedQ51JCw8CROY5yoCpK8vN-aWxIhXpM1-NS_qX6uNx-3IpA8HG6XQEOZWi844tbnl44w3DZEYqbpB5qWLX2tCKdelb7zsJ8D89uMo/s1600-h/char+flyer.jpg"></a>!!!! </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-12496858777670941722008-09-07T18:25:00.004+01:002008-09-07T18:29:29.541+01:00Mojito- Live Cuban Salsa @ Copacabana, Manchester, UK<span style="font-weight:bold;">Are you in Manchester on Weds October 15th 2008? Then you HAVE to catch Manchester's hottest Cuban Salsa Band @ Copacabana, 5 Dale St, Mcr!!!!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimq_gyGwI1vSCDE17vm6zm6Wfro_sFRpxitnosmYLun7h7RsHHfucB2GvM0pSdWUv_T_ZaZO5mvCIzJVZL0eFJXlDR2S4dRBvBustwCYJX3ygr3GP3Jmy9vMQPJrOFzlv3hop9jjvf-TdG/s1600-h/mojito.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimq_gyGwI1vSCDE17vm6zm6Wfro_sFRpxitnosmYLun7h7RsHHfucB2GvM0pSdWUv_T_ZaZO5mvCIzJVZL0eFJXlDR2S4dRBvBustwCYJX3ygr3GP3Jmy9vMQPJrOFzlv3hop9jjvf-TdG/s320/mojito.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243332235769279970" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Here's what their press release says:</span><br /><br />"COPACABANA PROUDLY PRESENTS 5 PIECE CUBAN SALSA BAND MOJITO!<br /><br />Fronted by the enigmatic Damian from Havana, this salsa band have an eclectic mix of styles, ranging from the classic to the modern. Their energy and power create a party atmosphere from the outset.<br /><br />Their vibrant electricity is sure to pack the dancefloor.<br /><br />THIS IS THE NIGHT THAT EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT! DON'T MISS IT! RESERVE YOUR TICKET NOW!"<br /><br />£6 in advance, £8 on the door<br /><br />Call: Paula on 07879 405957 or Andre on 07974 640541<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">See you there?</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-39767774705510429842008-06-12T15:40:00.005+01:002008-06-12T16:16:06.990+01:00Adalberto y Su Son- Gozando En La Habana<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNma4qrtzrx5ISeMI1SzYyjfgNQ-cPhrfP2z5Ovw4-tFyf01FzvTAhvsMZnZSkLglFS6oMOcQFg3_GaFismU0euqQDaG7HD4y0r15Qjmx0z6_BTR-lMuMIYJxaKHP1gKLZK8LQr_uCtBC/s1600-h/adalberto+gozando.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNma4qrtzrx5ISeMI1SzYyjfgNQ-cPhrfP2z5Ovw4-tFyf01FzvTAhvsMZnZSkLglFS6oMOcQFg3_GaFismU0euqQDaG7HD4y0r15Qjmx0z6_BTR-lMuMIYJxaKHP1gKLZK8LQr_uCtBC/s320/adalberto+gozando.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211005908708876786" /></a> The man and his band have done it again, and they just keep doing it! This is album 20-something and he still delivers the smooth, instantly loveable and memorable Son that he is renowned for. Will this man ever stop?<br /><br />It's like he only has to breathe to create a new theme as his sound is so effortless, and distinctive and this release marks 35 years of continued success for EL Caballero de Son from Camaguey. Along with the 'oldies' such as Cesar Pedroso and Juan Formell who have been around forever, he manages to keep the sound popular, universal and modern.<br />Two new hits 'Gozando En La Habana' and 'Amor de Mentira' kicks off the albums and are currently being worshiped on their home turf, complete with super-modern videos- how does he do it?<br /><br /><em>Gozando En La Habana (on telly)</em><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/IVeW-kvhowE&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/IVeW-kvhowE&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />As testament to his longivity and legendary status, 2 pupurris are included on the album- one dedicated to the 90s and the second, later on to the 80s (for those who remember!)They slip from one song into the next effortlessly and remind of the sheer number of hits they have had.<br /><br />As another blast from the past (and maybe something for the other oldies!), there is a new, delicious version of the classic 'Camina y Prende El Fogon', made famous by Conjunto Chappottin. <br />See below for the original :-)<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hUUhqF3GlGw&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hUUhqF3GlGw&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />The rest of the album delivers more- It's reliable Adalberto, maintaining the strength of lonely Son in a world of timba and reggaeton...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.discuba.com/disco.asp?cod_cd=b664">BUY IT!!</a><br /><em></em><em></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-86042407118734862222008-06-12T15:29:00.003+01:002008-06-12T15:38:22.285+01:00Manolito y Su Trabuco- Control (review) 2008<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViu2KqAViSEitnhJQ_HP24Z5gn2xnbRhUrPlh1RHmOgPJHzh9Ambn_wzbiIDLhO7e56-vP4rSaxnWSwJZ5E0DghLuYjSFi_GxZD4wW1aENK1G0-BQBP_atqr5C0wLEhuqIgoHaAHiUxJS/s1600-h/control.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViu2KqAViSEitnhJQ_HP24Z5gn2xnbRhUrPlh1RHmOgPJHzh9Ambn_wzbiIDLhO7e56-vP4rSaxnWSwJZ5E0DghLuYjSFi_GxZD4wW1aENK1G0-BQBP_atqr5C0wLEhuqIgoHaAHiUxJS/s320/control.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211004297345267698" /></a> We waited and waited and waited for this year’s offering from the fantastic Manolito y Su Trabuco- ready for the meaty tracks that explode as soon as your finger hits the play button, and we were....well,....disappointed.<br />Don’t get me wrong. This is not a bad album and I still consider the group the greatest talent in Cuba today but this is just not what we expected.<br /><br />The album slides towards our ears gently with ‘Relampago’, one of the numerous tracks penned by Amaray, now the band’s longest running member. We pass onto ‘Loco Por Tus Besos’ which is another relaxed, romantic tune complete with guitar and teclado sounds that are reminiscent of Manolito from the 90s. The same guitar introduces track 3 and El Nor’s debut recording with the group. This new singer straight from Maikel Blanco’s Salsa Mayor has a distinctive timbre and this track doesn’t do his voice justice. Perhaps this one was meant for his predecessor ‘El Indio’.<br /><br />‘La Habana Me Llama’ is the super-popular track currently being blasted through the club sound systems of Havana and for a good reason- the arrangements are fab and the track builds, dies, builds and climaxes into the catchy coro that you will find yourself singing when you least expect it!<br /><br />‘Collecionista de Canciones’ and ‘Corazon’ are more romantic Amaray offerings- not bad but not exactly slamming stuff.<br /><br />Mayami’s bassy, rough vocals sex it up a little with ‘Muevete’ which grooves and gives us some of the Manolito we know and love and is one of the best tracks on the album Though some say that Mayami lacks in the vocal department, his talents lie elsewhere (lol) and brings something slightly raw to the album.<br /><br />‘Niebla de Riachuelo’ features Andy Montanez on vocals and is more romantic stuff, then ‘Guines Que Le Pasa A Tata’ is another guest track by the legend Tata Guines who died earlier this year. Though good, why are these tracks on the album?<br />‘Popurri’ winds up several classic tracks together, but I can’t help feeling that the originals are far, far better and the salsaton ‘Control’ is more Manolito style but sadly is a bow to the reggaeton craze.<br /><br />I’m disappointed. What happened guys? There are a few good tracks on the album, but as I said before, this is not the Manolito y Su Trabuco we know and love. Maybe too much writing opportunity has been given to Amaray (who is ever-fond of romantica) or maybe they are losing their recording momentum...They still ROCK live and it’s definitely worth seeing them as much as possible in Havana, but this recording is almost like a different band, a different genre, a different time.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Control-Manolito-Simonet-Su-Trabuco/dp/B001AY7HU6/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1213281280&sr=1-7">Buy it</a>, but don’t expect it to be like the other albums.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-42059727043993037602008-06-09T08:56:00.002+01:002008-06-09T08:59:40.759+01:00CARNVAL DE CUBA 2008, London<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmcITjWs6Wi55Fgx0G0reE86Lw3X00EiQHBjBX3th62SqG5efDAqJHYUbhex5rcqwxyA0o9bREiJim10EJe1ZS4B8zYXBC3z7S4ZIrxBjbWdA1XE8lVHAvTxA09VkgLX0dIJiTWaCChKG/s1600-h/carnaval+de+cuba.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209787830316636018" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmcITjWs6Wi55Fgx0G0reE86Lw3X00EiQHBjBX3th62SqG5efDAqJHYUbhex5rcqwxyA0o9bREiJim10EJe1ZS4B8zYXBC3z7S4ZIrxBjbWdA1XE8lVHAvTxA09VkgLX0dIJiTWaCChKG/s400/carnaval+de+cuba.jpg" border="0" /></a> BE THERE!</div><div align="center"> </div>You can't miss Charanga Habanera, Telmary Diaz, Sur Caribe and Eminencia Clasica all completely <em>FREE</em> in London...<br /><br />28th and 29th June 2008<br /><br />check out<br /><a href="http://www.carnaval-de-cuba.com/">http://www.carnaval-de-cuba.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-73094796814336162232008-06-09T08:27:00.003+01:002008-06-09T08:37:58.210+01:00Back in Europe......<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERVWbzG9zQ74wNpZGNtdDg0FM5PSQkDw5UAvKeLzVOxx1L_dxw6mbHn2kJiKEIPpxYE0oZWk1zk1C1_T5Ntm6aUby9L6UC5KYKb2PJXAH0-9j42fWNz0fI6EYNHGtAg1EgRRB1f0zg-8d/s1600-h/havana.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209780470421989282" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERVWbzG9zQ74wNpZGNtdDg0FM5PSQkDw5UAvKeLzVOxx1L_dxw6mbHn2kJiKEIPpxYE0oZWk1zk1C1_T5Ntm6aUby9L6UC5KYKb2PJXAH0-9j42fWNz0fI6EYNHGtAg1EgRRB1f0zg-8d/s200/havana.jpg" border="0" /></a> Your warrior has returned!!! After a 3 month absence battling in contradictory Cuba, I'm finally back in Manchester, UK and back to fight the corner for Cuban music in the UK.<br /><br />I'm not such a dedicated blogger as some, and the internet access from Havana is, well, <em>super-slow </em>and that's being kind. Hence no updates for a while. I will try my hardest to update you on all of the goings-on in the sunny isle as I try to settle back into a European summer.<br /><br />You know what is cheering me me up for now? <strong>Carnaval de Cuba, London</strong> returns this 28/29th June- YAY!.....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-44480889362237974842008-03-08T00:22:00.006+00:002008-06-12T16:22:51.299+01:00Tirso Duarte- Interview<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijs0SDkePr2OHn7dn1hGLFntazYrXkEXOhrD85Qj_uGUQfrk5IxfPfjcrKLMiB5ODEWzHpPJ5v3rRhnOVzU0bC8Ivd0M5vWrsOMay-sS_yXqwn6knjZuPm3Z_phOzvyY20aJLDVNKSzmLV/s1600-h/tirso.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijs0SDkePr2OHn7dn1hGLFntazYrXkEXOhrD85Qj_uGUQfrk5IxfPfjcrKLMiB5ODEWzHpPJ5v3rRhnOVzU0bC8Ivd0M5vWrsOMay-sS_yXqwn6knjZuPm3Z_phOzvyY20aJLDVNKSzmLV/s200/tirso.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211015225733481218" /></a><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Tirso Duarte is one of the most talents and also elusive musicians of recent years. Having worked with Charanga Habanera, NG La Banda and Pupy y Los Que Son Son, he has recently collaborated with various Timberos, Reggaetoneros and of course, released the fantastic "Fin del Juego" at the end of last year.</span><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">I met him on a balmy March evening in Havana to question him on all matters music-related.....</span><br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: We haven't heard much about you recently. What have you been up to?</span><br />Tirso: I've been busy! Since releasing "Fin del Juego", I've been working with the Afro-Cuban All Stars again and we're in the studio at the moment putting the finishing touches to our new release<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: Is the CD timba or reggaeton?</span><br /><br />Tirso: It's a mixture of both of them: about a 50/50 balance and I'm really excited about it.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: What are your views on reggaeton? Many of us thought that you weren't a fan, but then you collaborated with 0 Kopia last year with the reggaeton track "Olvida La Pena"?..</span><br /><br />Tirso: <em>(sighs and raises eyebrows)</em>I have never said that I don't like reggaeton and I don't know why people think that. On the song "No Es Problema Mio", I said that rap and reggaeton are more simple, basic genres but I have a live-and-let-live philosophy. If you listen to various tracks on "Timba Cubana" and "Fin del Juego", you can hear elements of reggaeton. You see, music has always evolved always will. We need to embrace and experiment with all developments, including reggaeton. Having said that, my roots always have been and always will be timba.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: You were a founding member of Charanga Habanera. What do you think of the band now and criticisms that they are becoming more and more like a pop/boy band?</span><br /><br />Tirso: Well, they're certainly not the same band they once were when I was in the group. Like everything in life, they too are evolving and I'm sure they will soon be something different again.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: How was it to work with Pupy and why did you leave?</span><br /><br />Tirso: Cesar Pedroso is an extremely talented man and I really enjoyed my time with the band. the problem was that I wasn't able to peform my own material and that is an extremely important part of me as a musician- it's a muscle I have to exercise!<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: you have covered a lot of tracks by Alejandro Sanz in your solo releases? Does that mean that you're a great fan of his?</span><br /><br />Tirso: Alejandro writes the most romantic songs with the greatest sentiment and feeling. Yes., I'm a big fan.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: What do you think of timba's popularity outside of Cuba, especially in Europe?</span><br /><br />Tirso: You don't have to be Cuban to love timba! Take the Italians for example- many of them are greater fans of the music and better dancers than a lot of Cubans I know.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: Why do you think that is?</span><br /><br />Tirso: There is no explanation- it's just something beyond reason- like a gift from above. Like me- I have never met my African ancestors but I can still sense these rhythms in my blood.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: So what are your plans for the future?</span><br /><br />Tirso: As I said, we're in the studio at the moment and looking forward to the CD's release. We were in Mexico last year and we hope to tour Europe this summer- we always have a fantastic time there!<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: Are you performing at the moment?</span><br /><br />Tirso: We prefer to concentrate our efforts on the recording right now but once we have finished, we will be back on the scene.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Dj Carlota: Great! I look forward to seeing you again in action and hearing the new CD too- seems there is release from you every few months. And thanks for your time!</span><br /><br />Tirso: You're very welcome.<br /><br /><br /><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Tirso seems to be one of the most underrated artsits in the current scenebut remains modest of his own talents and forever dedicated to his work.<br /><br />Check out the audio examples on timba.com or any of his releases.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-369336164091993012008-02-19T19:20:00.009+00:002008-02-19T19:48:59.919+00:00Elito Reve- Fresquecito, and more...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZg9y493PMcWE77xspTukNs-0Sp9g1DKfBEdWs2S3432iDvaybiIH76a5ubBavcbEe2RJD-yYM5_pceFHdPR8nonOgl38AVu3nqcklyxU8yZbQKKE066UKBlQrFUkV9zp3y2TOaJhAtf94/s1600-h/ElioReve_Fresquecito.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168775221087308546" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZg9y493PMcWE77xspTukNs-0Sp9g1DKfBEdWs2S3432iDvaybiIH76a5ubBavcbEe2RJD-yYM5_pceFHdPR8nonOgl38AVu3nqcklyxU8yZbQKKE066UKBlQrFUkV9zp3y2TOaJhAtf94/s320/ElioReve_Fresquecito.jpg" border="0" /></a>Sorry..life's been so hectic lately with my next trip to Cuba just around the corner!<br /><br />There is good news though- I finally got my hands on the new Reve album- Fresquecito last week and I have to say that it was definitely worth the wait! Track after track is steaming charangon...If I get chance, I'll sort my review for you.<br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center">You can listen to it yourself now if you just can't wait. Just click <a href="http://musica-cubana.blogspot.com/2007/12/elio-reve-jr-y-su-charangon-fresquecito.html">here</a></div><div align="center">and I guess if you really, really like it and just want to get your hands on it, <a href="http://www.prodland.de/?product=CD-8926&source=home&Content=product">click here </a></div><div align="left"></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#6600cc;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#6600cc;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#ffffff;"><strong>Cuba</strong></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Of I go next week to spend 3 months in Timba Geek heaven and the plan is to keep you updated with what is going on right from the heart of it all. If technology is not my friend, you'll just have to wait for the photographic evidence but I promise to try to get it all to you as often as possible!</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffffff;"></span></div><div align="left"><strong><span style="color:#ffffff;">Interviews</span></strong></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Want to get inside the head of my mystery friend? Watch out for an exclusive interview <em>coming soon!</em></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-89448543852507683042008-02-06T16:31:00.000+00:002008-02-07T16:11:51.820+00:00What's going on in London at the moment?<div align="left">Are you going to be in London soon? Want to know somewhere decent to go?<br />The <a href="http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=104921110">legendary DJ Javier</a> has just announced his events and it seems like we have somewhere else to go- yippee!!<br /><br />THIS SATURDAY IS AN EARLY VALENTINE's DAY:</div><div align="left"><br />FREE Salsa Class 9:15 with NELSON (AKA Godfather of Salsa)</div><div align="left">DJs Ara and Javier<br />Timba, Reggaeton, Merengue, Latin Groove<br />ENTRANCE £ 8<br />1 venue - 2 Rooms Fully Air Conditioned229 Great Portland Street. London W1<br />For more info. phone: 020 78373752 or E-mail them:<a href="mailto:info@salsa-fusion.com">info@salsa-fusion.com</a> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">ALSO..check out Thursdays (see below)<br /><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HYJItmRUui-LPttRnkJxhXNhozmuZgJZfY12KEEAzjL-KZI2rra5i60oFPRREzWu0gUiafETTRdDgnU4CeID1lLadElUzIdwM2F3N-KifddTzNufPRKfUpN4VeT48hpd1sWH0HcO183x/s1600-h/small_music_palace_side1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163906133914708866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HYJItmRUui-LPttRnkJxhXNhozmuZgJZfY12KEEAzjL-KZI2rra5i60oFPRREzWu0gUiafETTRdDgnU4CeID1lLadElUzIdwM2F3N-KifddTzNufPRKfUpN4VeT48hpd1sWH0HcO183x/s400/small_music_palace_side1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9aQog4cceIdj825DXGYzlkINJq3nfBrZPQ0ycxlCyS_jOCKRfiw40BTJ1TDOv3ZdCJSg2GA6rDtC5FQBC0e8V4ERbANUtcMFJ1wApL1GrgAk60MKu9x5rYSuobA1F-5_qYe8Lmf0u02-/s1600-h/small_music_palace_side2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163906267058695058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9aQog4cceIdj825DXGYzlkINJq3nfBrZPQ0ycxlCyS_jOCKRfiw40BTJ1TDOv3ZdCJSg2GA6rDtC5FQBC0e8V4ERbANUtcMFJ1wApL1GrgAk60MKu9x5rYSuobA1F-5_qYe8Lmf0u02-/s400/small_music_palace_side2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />So if there's a place to be on a Thursday, it better be The Salsa Music Palace with <a href="http://www.salsatumbao.co.uk/">SalsaTumbao</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-7214187759602464582008-02-04T15:23:00.000+00:002008-02-04T15:43:23.762+00:00Osvaldo Chacon @ The International Cuban Salsa Extravaganza, Leicester Feb 2008<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtbn5tR1ZjXsAUwyLK22w-kBB-Bpd7sVyhVmCGxERhSS6M4VA7Tifoy9trGkYlKIc1UPx7CIPpfw8IqDICp72MmRR9ny9JgSxNRVjIAKE7RzVnA0tDXhC0wdfEul9GPUotmsVNaukD6EX/s1600-h/osvaldo.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtbn5tR1ZjXsAUwyLK22w-kBB-Bpd7sVyhVmCGxERhSS6M4VA7Tifoy9trGkYlKIc1UPx7CIPpfw8IqDICp72MmRR9ny9JgSxNRVjIAKE7RzVnA0tDXhC0wdfEul9GPUotmsVNaukD6EX/s320/osvaldo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163146603308149570" /></a>I had been keen to catch up with Osvaldo for a while, and my opportunity arrived in the The International Cuban Salsa Extravaganza presented by <a href="http://www.havananights.co.uk">Havana Nights</a> on 1st and 2nd Feb 2008. Not only this, but a whole weekend jam-packed full of classes, music and fantastic tracks from <a href="http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=104921110">DJ Javier</a> were on offer. <em>How could we refuse?</em><br /><br /><a href="http://www.chacon.co.uk/index.php">Osvaldo</a> was in great form, screaming the victory of timba in the UK (as a response to certain people who claim timba is dead I suspect)and the band was tight and pure energy! A great start to a great weekend. Even people who weren't familliar with his work were soon filling the dancefloor and showing off their best moves, even the NY style dancers.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXgM7f5ygPj92by8y7uc-8nD0-ZU1yOiu4bDnPyHKAG4d0s4iUu-ANDR1O4EDCkYa_XMJbm7X6b1q3mQ0L_smN_1CUY1mAaq0Lfn5FOJtI-giG4R8g_A_xb-2Aw1ECx7ACYSGMyXdbept/s1600-h/char,+lisa+and+osvaldo.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXgM7f5ygPj92by8y7uc-8nD0-ZU1yOiu4bDnPyHKAG4d0s4iUu-ANDR1O4EDCkYa_XMJbm7X6b1q3mQ0L_smN_1CUY1mAaq0Lfn5FOJtI-giG4R8g_A_xb-2Aw1ECx7ACYSGMyXdbept/s200/char,+lisa+and+osvaldo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163149614080224082" /></a><br /><br />Unfortunately, I couldn't hang around for the second night but my secret reporters tell me the music and atmosphere was FANTASTIC! <br />Make sure you head down to the next weekender they offer- I'm sure I'll see you there!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_ss_w_h_?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=osvaldo+chacon">Click here</a> to buy his albums<br /><br /><em>(Photos c. Lisa Barry and Rod Lawson)</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-43503621310641168232008-01-30T21:03:00.000+00:002008-01-30T21:10:29.900+00:00Rueda de Casino- A La Japonés.....To continue the Rueda theme, here's a fab clip from the Bailar Casino show on <a href="http://www.cubavision.cubaweb.cu/">Cubavision</a>. <br /><br />Although not 'perfect', they capture the spirit of Rueda and add their own little sello that surely can't be matched (can it?!?) Watch out for the girl blending in with the rest of the group- hat's off to 'Girlie Rueda'. <br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RQHk5H_3FFY&rel=0&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca&border=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RQHk5H_3FFY&rel=0&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca&border=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br /><em>Coming soon...another clip to inspire all the would-be Rueda de Casino dancers</em><br /><br />Enjoy!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-69532021021877653172008-01-29T17:20:00.000+00:002008-02-04T15:44:58.668+00:00Amigos de Rueda- Some Northern UK stuff at last!!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCSuC6JZ-KpqaVZhGWph7_TTHQBCL0kfS_UjVgNmlKaC2GIQwlVZG004ofMUB4chR6dn3LJguwzvpQNrvM69hZIu0oNXIWz0rl0EOB7U9okSY_Qb35xy-zzcDJCurp1whCKNnTq69KXsF/s1600-h/rod+rueda.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCSuC6JZ-KpqaVZhGWph7_TTHQBCL0kfS_UjVgNmlKaC2GIQwlVZG004ofMUB4chR6dn3LJguwzvpQNrvM69hZIu0oNXIWz0rl0EOB7U9okSY_Qb35xy-zzcDJCurp1whCKNnTq69KXsF/s200/rod+rueda.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5160950341716568850" /></a><br />Finally, the North of England has some decent rueda/timba stuff going on...<br /><strong>Amigos de Rueda</strong> is a monthly rueda class open to all, beginners and likewise with the first night starting NEXT WEEK!!! <br /><br /><br />Get yourself to Ethio Cubano Restaurant, 15-23 Arundel Gate, Sheffield S1 2PN<br /><br />Here's the timetable:<br />7.30-8.30 Beginners rueda (salsa timing assumed, no specific rueda experience)<br />8.30-9.30 Intermediate (Basic rueda moves assumed)<br />9.30-11.00 social dancing [free]<br /><br /><em>Introductory price £2 per lesson waged, £1 unwaged</em><br />You can check out the event on Facebook (Amigos de Rueda) or leave a comment here for more info.<br />i'll be heading over to join in the fun!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-70185198037432495652008-01-25T08:30:00.000+00:002008-01-25T08:44:35.519+00:00Popular! Charanga Habanera Documentary<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8BJ539b6tnHz94cUpEpulv_Ulqr0Wid2k2LywQ8XBQib332JzVW36C-wYV7YE2Ip4xao7Yd5rXopzk0TJzSW2fhR4pr45U2KK8WHehuQxJALWzfeE0ZUrDQEZSmQ7NefCjYU4piVfSCp/s1600-h/charanga.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8BJ539b6tnHz94cUpEpulv_Ulqr0Wid2k2LywQ8XBQib332JzVW36C-wYV7YE2Ip4xao7Yd5rXopzk0TJzSW2fhR4pr45U2KK8WHehuQxJALWzfeE0ZUrDQEZSmQ7NefCjYU4piVfSCp/s200/charanga.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159332311572048594" /></a><br />As I start to prise myself away from Tirso's new album, my attention is turning to the highly rated Documentary by Jennifer Paz entitled <a href="http://www.popular-documentary.com/">"Popular!"</a><br /><br /> She follows the band, giving us an intelligent insider's view of the phenomenon that is Charanga Habanera, with unexpected bonuses like Haila, Juan de Marcos and Chucho Valdes. I'm desperate to see it (<em>please Tirso, let me go!</em>)<br /><br />If you want to join me, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LMPLWY?tag=titv-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=B000LMPLWY&adid=168SKHW3S4D5QQGGHKX9&">click here</a> to buy<br /><br />In the meantime, I'll have to make do with this trailer...<object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/r40yOd7zFPA&rel=0&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6&border=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/r40yOd7zFPA&rel=0&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6&border=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-77533276411671924162008-01-19T19:48:00.000+00:002008-01-26T12:37:59.443+00:00Tirso Duarte- Fin del Juego, (review)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNiSleO5wN-bK-KowVougj1UjM5wRa-DNOy7UBlySNLKi__4NIqidOJLHJNeZdcn3NecBIbPa-fepIw7mh4ZFyxZYKmZRirmGoLw5yOOJpz6hsy0DS9se6BuAtYJP3fE8rGIfRNx-H2Kf/s1600-h/tirso.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNiSleO5wN-bK-KowVougj1UjM5wRa-DNOy7UBlySNLKi__4NIqidOJLHJNeZdcn3NecBIbPa-fepIw7mh4ZFyxZYKmZRirmGoLw5yOOJpz6hsy0DS9se6BuAtYJP3fE8rGIfRNx-H2Kf/s320/tirso.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157277513350414130" /></a><br /><br />Tirso Duarte is the most underestimated talent in modern Cuban music and has given us another opportunity to absorb his distinctive style in his latest release <a href="http://www.prodland.de">‘Fin Del Juego’ </a>(Envidia 7193)<br /><br />We kick off with <strong><em>‘La Madre Maria’</em>- </strong>a catchy opening for the beginning of an album that demonstrates the heavy influence that reggaeton/cubatón will play throughout this release. His unique piano style emerges peeps around the corner and reminds us that not all may be lost in the reggaeton darkness- we have a master before us!<br /><br /><strong><em>‘Olvida La Pena’</em></strong> is the second offering. This was a reggaeton hit in 2007 when he was an invitado for the original 0Kopia release and here it has been given a hint of timba which increases throughout the track. Writing credits name Mr Duarte so it’s unclear whether 0Kopia gave it the reggaeton touch, or via versa<em>…”Timba con Aché”</em>? Not quite convinced yet….<br /><strong><br /><em>‘Fin del Juego’</em></strong> is the title track and doesn’t fail to disappoint. It starts slow, reminiscent of Adalberto Alvarez or Pachito Alonso (both of whom he’s worked with). It’s slow, well arranged and has beautiful piano parts throughout. It’s also a track dense with so called ‘musical quotes’ and he borrows from Beny More’s ‘Como Fue’ and surprisingly, Dido’s hit ‘Thank You’. The track increases in intensity and develops almost angrily until the coros repeat 'Fin del juego' over and over. <br /><strong><br /><em>‘Yo Soy Tu Papi’</em></strong> could be taken straight from a Salsa Mayor release, or that’s how it feels. Maybe it’s the metales arrangement, the trombone style that is especially evident in this release. It’s medium-paced and grows on you with each listen. Turn it up!!! <em>‘La Niña se va, se va’</em>. There is another interesting musical quote here, this time the theme from ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ in the horns. What has he been listening to lately?<br /><br /><strong><em>‘Regalame Tu Silla’ </em></strong>was written by Alejandro Sanz, apparently a favourite of Tirso’s. Its rumba introduction gives way to light piano and the sweet voice of Iala Batule in the coro. The track remains like this: haunting and gentle and almost bare until almost 3 minutes through when it’s as if life takes hold, although there is only basic instrumentation until 4 minutes in when the metales come in and we glide away.<br /><strong><em><br />‘El Chino Chulo’</em></strong> is cubatón/reggaeton done á la Tirso. The stepping bassline, electronic drum sounds and occasional rap sections are our link between timba and reggaeton: <em>‘Esto es timba con reggaeton’</em>… We exit with a great conga/rumba influence and wish all cubaton could be like this!<br /><strong><em><br />‘La Cosa Mas Bella’</em></strong> was written by Eros Ramazzotti and is another track that, once given a Tirso makeover is better than ever and probably the best track on the album. Keyboards, piano then trumpet lead us in to the tight, well-arranged love song. As usual, it breaks into stronger timba. It’s great, great, great and I just want to dance!!<br /><strong><em><br />‘El Asesino’</em></strong> goes almost straight into vocal harmony as our intro. The shadow of reggaeton is again present and piano hiding behind the groove but remains one of the purer timba tracks of the album.<br /><br />We go on to ‘<strong><em>Maldito Dolor’</em></strong>, which is a collaboration with the great José Luis Cortés of NG La Banda, who Tirso is currently working with, but surprisingly, doesn’t grab me much. That’s not to say it’s a bad track, but doesn’t seem a patch on his usual offerings.<br /><br />The final track <strong><em>‘Ceci’</em></strong> is another track reminiscent of Salsa Mayor and was written by Iala Batule and is a good softer track to end with, especially with Tirso’s trademark racing piano.<br /><br />The entire album proves what can be done with a drop of reggaeton influence, a huge bag of timba and a monton of talent.Add talented writers and musicans such as Osvaldo Huerta of Salsa Mayor, Pedro Pablo Gutierrez of CH and CF, Ciso Guanche of Adalberto (amongst others far too numerous to mention here) and Ariel Guillot Manzano of Issac Delgado and the Soneros All-Stars and you have a release that is a reflection of the times and one not to miss. <br /><a href="http://www.camajan.com/discos/7193.html"><strong>Click here to listen </strong></a><br /><br />© Carlota WittsUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-8792072446769011812008-01-07T14:06:00.000+00:002008-01-07T14:13:35.563+00:00Osvaldo Chacon- live dates in London<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO61iUQdvDhgQUrvfDG6gjSTSwFwJp5fPBQR38g2pgTuuUq9bpaDwWJYDkLDv55-ls1NStJ6RDkjh2f48D2o5Lzh59uedv-ACJ3xf7l7Wffg_TVOngwWB9vhOtgvuVmsPDf8sHIbDoh4sU/s1600-h/osvaldo.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO61iUQdvDhgQUrvfDG6gjSTSwFwJp5fPBQR38g2pgTuuUq9bpaDwWJYDkLDv55-ls1NStJ6RDkjh2f48D2o5Lzh59uedv-ACJ3xf7l7Wffg_TVOngwWB9vhOtgvuVmsPDf8sHIbDoh4sU/s320/osvaldo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152736508852862754" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.chacon.co.uk">Osvaldo Chacon</a> of recent <a href="http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=46320507">Son Veneno </a>fame (but previously TONS of other artists!) has just announced <a href="http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=136021996">upcoming gigs for 2008</a>. He's definitely a must-see if the reports are anything to go by. Hopefully, I'll be popping down to say hi before I head off to Cuba again.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-13008484112311379762008-01-02T08:07:00.000+00:002008-01-02T08:16:11.191+00:00Carnaval Cubana, London 2008Need something to look forward to as the post-Christmas/New Year blues approaches? <br /><br />The famous <a href="http://www.carnival-de-cuba.com/">Carnaval de Cuba</a> is coming back in June- dates are 14 and 15 June 2008 (<em>unconfirmed as yet</em>) <br />It's one not to miss with guaranteed live Cuban bands, food, dance classes and shows. Last year it was <a href="http://www.egrem.com.cu/catalogo/musicuba/mc_pedritocalvo.asp">Pedro Calvo</a> with <a href="http://www.surcaribe.com/inicioeng.htm">Sur Caribe</a> (and more that I missed) and it's all for FREE. No pennies. Nada. Yay! <br /><br /> Get the date in your diary and watch this space for confirmation. <br />Here's a vid of the Sur Caribe hit of 2006 to get you in the mood...<br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/bJlauc365VA&rel=1&color1=0xd6d6d6&color2=0xf0f0f0&border=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/bJlauc365VA&rel=1&color1=0xd6d6d6&color2=0xf0f0f0&border=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-5649307046291586212008-01-01T08:36:00.000+00:002008-01-01T08:48:31.612+00:00David Calzado interview!!<a href="http://images.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://www.salsasocialclub.com/interviste/immagini/david_calzado.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.salsasocialclub.com/interviste/david_calzado.html&h=370&w=250&sz=26&hl=en&start=6&tbnid=to6jT-2iv79G3M:&tbnh=122&tbnw=82&prev=/images%3Fq%3Ddavid%2Bcalzado%26gbv%3D2%26svnum%3D10%26hl%3Den"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVo1WQaPdJOqViGqHD6DWqmBX_iziiATZUyXwzC2IBG4mYo_0MJwNB3GEh7jELaPzyvuiiHMFq1eWNerNNvAek1bBmGPJcjaIzM6oLtJoWJSFGtx3O70chHOUe8jipT0EmQsjpsiSt-Y4N/s1600-h/david_calzado.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVo1WQaPdJOqViGqHD6DWqmBX_iziiATZUyXwzC2IBG4mYo_0MJwNB3GEh7jELaPzyvuiiHMFq1eWNerNNvAek1bBmGPJcjaIzM6oLtJoWJSFGtx3O70chHOUe8jipT0EmQsjpsiSt-Y4N/s200/david_calzado.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150425863692254978" /></a></a><br />David Calzado celebrated his 50th birthday on Saturday and in tribute to him (and possibly defence of his recent boy-band tactics!) click <a href="http://www.cubarte.cult.cu/global/loader.php?cat=actualidad&cont=showitem.php&id=43949&tabla=articulo&anno=&seccion=Noticias&tipo=Otras%20noticias">here</a> for an article on him and an interview too!!! <br /><br /><em>Photo taken from a <a href="http://www.salsasocialclub.com/testi_home/editoriale_home.html">great Italian site</a>. Click on the photo and pay them a visit!!</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-20947754215722281302007-12-31T12:21:00.000+00:002007-12-31T12:27:38.652+00:00NG La Banda con Tirso DuarteIf you're really lucky and happen to live in Mexico, keep your ears open for NG La Banda featuring their old friend and bandmember Tirso Duarte. They're currently over there on tour. I may seem to be obsessed at the moment with him (<em>mentira!!) </em>but it's just that I HATE to see such talent wasted. See <a href="http://www.timba.com">timba.com</a> for more info about him and watch this space for more updates.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892490794816903686.post-1732051251048434272007-12-30T07:58:00.001+00:002007-12-30T08:09:03.716+00:00The Rumours....Rumours, rumours, rumours..The current Manolito debate continues, but according to Michelle White of <a href="http://www.timba.com">timba.com</a>, William is still in Pupy and El Noro is now in Manolito. And that's it. Final. Apparently. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4jzFXV-HyLsoQ4IGQQrAi3UTUqwy6O43w3izpDAxRNqh0OVyVAFE5sdBc37mtsy3hmDvsS3V5o2qoCW_EKCikgx09_FqB22pOFHY4zQlziiYBHO87-lwct6dmwgrZRCjHjipyBpI1v-P/s1600-h/pupy.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4jzFXV-HyLsoQ4IGQQrAi3UTUqwy6O43w3izpDAxRNqh0OVyVAFE5sdBc37mtsy3hmDvsS3V5o2qoCW_EKCikgx09_FqB22pOFHY4zQlziiYBHO87-lwct6dmwgrZRCjHjipyBpI1v-P/s320/pupy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5149674703976955634" /></a> <em>(photo c. Rod Lawson)</em><br /><br />You might remember that there was a bit of crisis with the Casa de la Musica, Galiano back in November. Well, checking the listings on the <a href="http://www.egrem.com.cu/egrem/progcmusica.asp">EGREM</a> site suggests that it's up and running again...and Pupy is playing TONIGHT!!! <em>(someone rescue me from the Manchester rain pleeassseeee!!)</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0