Customer Reviews

Rumba Caliente 88/77

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Los Munequitos are the definitive source of modern rumba, with roots as an ensemble dating back to the 1950's (one of the founding members, Gregorio "Goyo" Alfonso, plays on this album) when they were called Conjunto Guaguanco Mantancero. Several songs on this record were composed by Florencio Calle, the musical director at that time. Speaking directly from the soul of the land, some of these songs will bring tears to your eyes, if you let them. But you will be dancing as well- the interplay of the drums in the hands of these complete masters of rumba invites you to be swept up in the tide of rhythm and emotion. The first six songs (recorded in 1988)are not optimally mixed, but listen to songs like "Parece Mentira" or "En Opuestas Regiones" for the rich tapestry of rural Cuban experience to unfold. This is what it sounds like when the community comes together to laugh, to sing, to drink and to dance. This is rumba. There are compositions like "Baba Cuello Mao" and "La Viola" (both recorded in 1977) that show how beautifully the African singing syle of call-and-response have been preserved and nurtured within the Cuban folkloric repetoire. Los Munequitos have given us a priceless gift once again.

A great compilation recorded by Cuba's foremost and internationally famous "guaguanco/rhumba" ensemble. The album has a great sound and features some of the groups original members who were not retired yet. The chorus and percussion are brilliant as is usual with this best loved group.
A must buy by lovers of this great and traditional Cuban music genre. I highly recommend it. Get it while its still available.