:: Various Artists - The Greatest Cuban Collection Ever

Various Artists

The folk at Petrol Records have again made a terrific compilation. The selection of Cuban music for this album sets a beautiful concoction for smooth, delicious flavours. It makes for great listening, dancing, and sheer style. Three albums are beautifully packaged under the theme of drinks, dinner, and dance. The first CD is dedicated to Mambo, starting with the sensual sounds of Omara Portuondo with “Donde Estasbas Tu”. The beats flow majestically through eleven other energetic tracks. Then it’s time to drop the tempo a notch for working up the appetite for Cha Cha Cha treats from artists such as Ruben Gonzalez, Tito Rodriguez, and Maraca. In fact, Maraca then sets off the final CD, based around a theme of Salsa flavours. Lively percussion and hearty horns leave you with the dancing desire. Cubanismo make their mark with a couple of fervent tracks. Any of these three CDs alone would be a great listen, but all three are impossible to ignore and recommended treats.