Ch..ch…changes!
Well, musical chairs are being played in the concert scene. I was looking forward to seeing Manolito at Yoshis. Now those shows have been canceled. David Calzado’s Charanga Habanera has also been canceled at Cocomo. Now, Manolito is scheduled to take their place on May 8th at Cafe Cocomo. However, the big Luis Enrique salsa dance with Adolecentes, Avance, Montuno Swing and others is still taking place on the 8th at the SF Hilton. Now if you’re a big tropical Latin music freak like me, there is a dilemma if you want to see both gigs that evening. I also have my radio show that evening so I will attempt to be at 3 different places at the same time that evening…I been practicing my...
Read MoreThe Cuban Invasion SF/Bay Area Style
One of my favorite modern Cuban bands is Manolito Y Su Trabuco led by pianist Manolito Simonet. Their repertoire includes some of the finest interpretations of timba, charanga, son and salsa today. Their ability to deliver anthemic songs with an irresistible swing such as “Marcando La Distancia”, “Caballo Grande” and “Communicate” have made them into one of the top draws in Cuba and a top touring act. They continue to put out great recordings and their live shows are incendiary. I never saw them live but on the dvd “Break Out” which came out a few years ago showcases the Trabuco in their timba drenched glory. This dvd which features a mano a mano between the popular Bamboleo and the Trabuco is well worth checking out. Now I will be able to finally check out Manolito and company absolutely live since they are visiting the Bay Area for the first time on Wed, May 5 (Cinco De Mayo) and Thursday, May 6, 8 and 10 pm at Yoshis, 1330 Fillmore,...
Read MoreGraciela RIP
Graciela Perez-Grillo was one of those legendary figures in our music who made an undeniable impact. Blessed with a great voice, impeccable timing, clear phrasing and a sense of humor, she sang with passion and style. Those classic Machito tunes that she recorded with her brother and husband Mario Bauza still stand the test of time. She enjoyed a renaissance in the late 80’s and 90’s when she and Mario Bauza collaborated on his last big band recordings. Now her music will be passed on to a new generation with open ears that appreciates classic dance music and loves to dance to it as well as the fans who loved her. Celia Cruz, La India, Albita, Elena Burke and many other divas owe a big debt to Graciela who was the first one to open the door. Blessed are the...
Read MoreSin Salsa No Hay Paraiso!
“Sin Salsa No Hay Paraiso” is the title of the new El Gran Combo cd on Sony which is definitely worth picking up! They are sounding solid as ever. I dare you to put this cd on and NOT dance. It is a fine example of music that is written, produced and performed well by one of the finest salsa orchestras in the world. Period. That is no small feat for a band that pushing 50 years in show business. It’s available on I Tunes for all of you who can’t wait for your local record store (do they still exist?) or mail order house to ship it to you! Pa’ bailar y...
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