Essential Listening July 2012

Here are a pair of great cds just in time for Summer listening:

Cheo Feliciano/Ruben Blades “Eba Say Aja”(Ariel Rivas Music) – Two of Salsa great soneros make a gem of a recording! They sing each other’s hits backed by a “phat” Vibes sound a la Joe Cuba and a tight rhythm section.  These distinctive stylists are at the top of their game: Blades’s sharp intense flow compliments the smooth Feliciano whose soneos are on point.  They get together for two soulful duets “Lo Bueno Ya Viene” and the dynamic bolero “Si Te Dicen”.  The real delight is hearing Ruben covering Feliciano’s signature tunes such as “Nina” and Feliciano coming back with a gorgeous version of Blades’ “Sin Tu Carino”.
La Excelencia “Ecos Del Barrio” (Handle With Care) – With their hearts on their sleeve, this street wise monster of a band has put out their best recording so far.  Salsa dura con conciencia is what La Excelencia does best.  “La Economia” says it all with it’s relevant social commentary and afinque.  This band swings with fire as it chronicles what is happening with the neighborhood today.   Their big bold sound also takes an Asian flavor with the irresistible “Descarga La Excelencia” or their bid for global domination “Pa’l Mundo Entero”