Customer Reviews

The Latin Album

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I bought this CD at a stoop sale for one dollar, and then sold it at a stoop sale for a dollar or two. I am very glad that I did not pay full price (or even half price) for it. I did not think it was a bad CD, but a bland CD. Every track on it I have heard performed better elsewhere. They are like Muzak versions of great Latin works.

Keith Lochart and the Boston Pops Orchestra have hit pure gold with "Latin Album." It's a genuine treat to have so many semi-classical Latin favorites on one album. My only real complaint is the absence of anything from the prodigious pen of Cuba's Ernesto Lecuona; the inclusion of "Malaguena" or "Andalucia" would have more completely rounded out an otherwise exciting recording of music from or inspired by our American neighbors who reside "South of the Border."

Keith Lockhart, the Boston Pops, and the guest artists have a hit in this one! I can almost forget the snow outside when I listen to it. I loved "Jalousie!" And Mariachi Cobre stands out on "Granada" and "Son de la Negra." Five star tracks, both of them, with Steve Carrillo's great vocal work on "Granada" and the spirited interchange between the Pops and Mariachi Cobre's brass sections in "Son de la Negra." Purists may object to the combination of Latin music and an orchestra, but I think it's a treat!

I am from Mexico, and I have heard all these pieces many times. Except for Salon Mexico, which I think thay do very good job, the rest lacks a bit of flavor. I noticed it the most on Huapango, particularly on the discussion between the trombone and the trumpet. The musicians at the Boston Pops are too well-trained. They have gorgeous phrasing, but that takes away the flavor of the moment. They are supposed to be insulting each other, not singing to each other. I do think that it is a good way to introduce the world to this music. It has been recorded almost exclusively by Latin American orchestras, and they have not been so comercialized as this recording will be.

The Boston Pops due a great job on this CD. I really like Batuque. If you are looking for a great CD that will really make you dance this is the one.

Where's the authentic Mariachi CDs? Let's have some of the real stuff! Anyone know where I can find some? LibbyBuckland@email.msn.com

I expected a little more action. I tend to think of mariachi and I got village pan pipes.