By AS137851
31-Aug-2012

Very Good Introduction to Salsa  

Begin reading liner notes on CD anthologies of New Orleans music, one invariably runs across the word, "gumbo", used to imply that the music is a stirred blend of influences from many contributing groups. This sort of predictable triteness is mercifully avoided when dealing with salsa, because "salsa" means "sauce", and so tells the reader that it is a stirred blend etc. without assistance from banal commentators.

Osvaldo Chacon has been an increasingly respected and sought-after salsa singer and bandleader over the past few years and is particularly popular today in the UK. "Salsa Timba", as explained by Chacon, is a particularly full musical sponge, having absorbed immense influence of various musical and dance styles. It is precise and punchy, but at the same time relaxed. There is a subtle drag to the second line rhythm that translates between the horn section's insistence on dance and the sophisticated musical conversation between the piano, bass, guitar and drums.

This reviewer believes that one's first salsa recording purchase is often one's disappointing last, because the music that evokes Carnevale and sensuality so well in tropically-set films [think James Bond movies] does not always cross cultural boundaries intact as a solely-audio experience; it loses something. That is not true of this release. The more familiar elements of "timba", in which one readily recognizes reggae, jazz, funk and rock make this work for the ear with no assistance from Mr. Bond required.

As to the setting for salsa timba, it should enhance activities ranging from tiki-lit yard parties to glamorous wedding receptions and from upscale retail establishments through long car trips to housecleaning.
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