Feliz Navidad y Viva La Musica

As we near the end of the year, I am often asked what are my picks of the year's best recordings in Salsa, Latin Jazz and Musica Cubana. I am going to run down some of my favorites in no determined order. So, here they are: The Spanish Harlem Orchestra "Viva La Tradicion", Luis Gonzalez "El Tsunami De La Salsa" recording "Tributo A Un Gigante", Sonora Poncena "Trayectoria + Consistencia = Sonora Poncena, Various Artists "Salsa-Un Homenaje A El Gran Combo", Chucho Valdes & The Afro Cuban Messengers "Chucho's Steps", Issac Delgado "L-O-V-E.", Manolito Y Su Trabuco "Trabuco Una Vez Mas", Hilario Duran "Motion", Edwin Bonilla "Homenaje A Los Rumberos", Wayne Wallace Latin Jazz Quintet "Bien Bien", El Gran Combo "Sin Salsa No Hay Paraiso" and Afrocubism "Afrocubism". My advice to everyone is seek and find these great releases!

Aqui El Que Baila Gana

The beloved Cuban band Juan Formell y Los Van Van hit Yoshi's San Francisco for four days of exciting shows the week of December 9th-12th. There was some doubt that the band would make it through their first tour in over 7 years due to legal issues and delayed visas but there they were on stage playing in front of standing room only crowds. Los Van Van were musically awesome, charismatic and ruled the crowd from the first notes of "Aqui El Que Baila Gana" to the grand finish of "Te Pone La Cabeza Mala". The front vocal line of Mayito, Roberton, Yenny, Lele and Juan Formell himself (on coro and electric bass for "Muevete") had the crowd totally involved by singing, dancing and waving their hands in the air. They were one of the tightest ensembles who perform with astonishing precision that this reviewer has seen in quite some time.

A Proud Moment

I gotten used to the fact that recognition can be elusive in my business. It can be especially sweet once it arrives at your door. I experienced one of the proudest moments of my life this past weekend when I was honored for my 36 years of promoting and presenting Latin Music on the airwaves. I along with 4 of my peers in radio, Chata Gutierrez (KPOO), Emiliano Echeverria (KPFA) and Avotcja (KPOO/KPFA) were honored during the 29th annual Encuentro Del Canto Popular which benefited the El Tecolote Newspaper celebrating 40 years of serving the Mission District community. The wonderful music was provided by La Familia Pena-Govea and the Futuro Picante youth salsa band (the future of Salsa with those kids 9 to 18). I was presented with the Certificate Of Honor from SF Mayor Gavin Newson in recognition of my many contributions to Latin Music. I was also presented by Assemblyman Tom Ammiano (a former comic with wicked wit) with the Certificate Of Recognition by the California Legislative Assembly for my role as producer, radio host and dj who helped create an environment where Latin Music could thrive in the Bay Area. I shared this proud moment with my mom Olga, my wife Isidra and my best friend Benji. You can check out my history at www.eltecolote.org.

Chico Y Rita

I was invited by my good friends, film producer Tom Luddy and musician/educator Rebeca Mauleon to attend a sneak preview of esteemed Spanish director Fernando Trueba's new animated film "Chico Y Rita" at the Pixar Studios. The film which is loosely based on the life of the famed Cuban pianist Bebo Valdes is full of the great classic Latin Jazz, mambo and boleros by Bebo which were re-recorded especially for this film. The story which is set in the 40's and 50's Cuba, New York and Europe tells the story of the romance between budding piano virtuoso Chico and rising vocalist Rita. The animation is spectacular, vibrant and colorful yet different from Disney or Pixar style. "Chico Y Rita" even features full frontal nudity which is quite a change from current animated fare such as the PG rated Tangled and Megamind in 3D. This is a such a great film that is adult, heartfelt, dramatic and a musical to boot. I throughly enjoyed this film. Tom explained to me that the film has yet to secure an American distributor because of the glut of animated films in the market. I hope that this situation will change soon so all of you can check out this gem of a film. I give it the golden thumbs of approval-way up!!

A Trio Of Riches/Un Trio De Riquezas

During the past few weeks, I was fortunate enough to see a trio of great shows with the likes of Lila Downs, Spanish Harlem Orchestra and Concha Buika. All unique and distinctive. I hosted the Lila Downs show at the SF Jazz Festival representing KPFA radio. Lila proved why she is one of the great performers today as she radiated warmth, her exuberance as a show and dance pro and showcased that elastic, sensational voice. Her repertoire ranged from traditional torch style rancheras to latin-tinged world pop. Her songs touched the hearts of the audience and she was rewarded by thunderous applause and standing ovations. The Spanish Harlem Orchestra slammed no nonsense hard-hitting salsa dura at Yoshi's. Led by pianist/musical director Oscar Hernandez, the orchestra shined with a set of new material drawn from their latest cd "Viva La Tradicion" peppered with a few choice nuggets from earlier recordings. Apart from being an instrumental powerhouse, the orchestra is blessed to have a trio of great vocalists such as Ray De La Paz, Marco Bermudez and newcomer Carlos Castante (also a fine songwriter). One of the finest salsa dance orchestras in the world today. Concha Buika's first Bay Area appearance was a highly anticipated date due to her great recordings including her latest with Chucho Valdes "El Ultimo Trago". She did not disappoint...what an original artist in terms of her unorthodox approach, her devastating wit and an dramatic voice which is both powerful and emotive. She is not your traditional flamenco singer at all-she skillfully blends jazz, afro-cuban melodies and flamenco to forge a new category of music. Her band included the phenomenal pianist Melon who contributed fiery solos that propelled her trio. At the end of her encore, she was alone on the stage performing an acapella version of the traditional Spanish copla "Ojos Verdes" which was both unforgettable and spellbinding.

Makes You Wanna Holler!

I have been busy dealing with changes in my work place as I continue to work as Music Director for KPFA in Berkeley. KPFA is the oldest listener sponsored public radio station in the U.S.. However, KPFA is one of the most complicated and dysfunctional media outlets with a history of internal politics, conflicts and never ending drama. Currently, there is a serious financial crisis with both KPFA and it's parent network Pacifica. This valued resource of left thinking alternative media has been around for 61 years but now is broke due to a toxic combination of mismanagement, over spending, a difficult "democratic" governance structure and a bleeding network. There are major disagreements between paid staff running the station, the unpaid programming staff and network management over the recent firing of the entire Morning Show staff. Network management has been criticized over the timing of the firings and the lack of public disclosure of a plan B to replace the program which is the station's most successful fund raiser. That controversy has led to a public relations disaster which is alienating loyal listeners. Add to that situation, dwindling resources and lack of money supporting KPFA's original model of a listener sponsored station without commercials and underwriting that has led to never ending fund drives and shrinking audiences. KPFA interim management had to cancel the station's upcoming fund drive scheduled for this week. The network is being accused of attempted union busting due to the political nature of the firings while the executive director claims that she is following union protocol honoring seniority of staff. The diverse and divisive opinions from internal waring factions from the paid staff to the non fund raising local station board fly all over the place as the painful layoffs and reduction of hours of staff continue. Seven key people have taken voluntary layoffs. It is a situation that is sad, absurd, challenging and puzzling at the same time. In spite of this morale busting environment, I am continuing in my now part time job and hosting my weekly program "Con Sabor" with the goal of producing good radio in this chaotic time. Other fellow music programmers are doing the same because the station deserves to exist and get support. I'm doing a lot of soul searching as I'm contemplating things in my life right now. Life tests you from time to time to see what you are made of and what choices you need to make to survive and move forward. To be continued...

Busy Busy Busy...calendar item

This has been one busy month! Maintaining ones blog is a discipline in my world. I am juggling like many parents out there. Working gigs and the regular job, dealing with your family, taking care of obligations, networking, preparing radio programs, planning for the future..and the list goes on and on. I'm back..ready with new things to share with you.

The Legendary Jelly's Dance Cafe - RIP

A San Francisco salsa lover's institution, Jelly's Dance Cafe at Pier 50 closed its doors last week but not without a final party blowout which featured Julio Bravo Y Salsabor, DJ Walt Digz and myself on the wheels of steel. It was beyond packed both inside and outside...I estimated that more than 600 people must have gone in and out of the venue during the evening. Since I have been a resident DJ on Club Havana Sundays for more than a decade, I recall some of the great musicians who sat in with bands at the club: Herman Olivera, Omar Sosa, Giovanni Hidalgo, Modesto Cepeda, Johnny Polanco, Pepito Gomez, Danny Lozada and La Palabra among others. In the early days, it was Louie Romero's Mazacote and Anthony Blea's Charanson who were the house bands. I rotated with Ivette "La Coqui" Fuentes as the house dj's for years mixing it up with salsa dura y clasica, timba, mambo and more. Ivette left a few years ago and DJ's Walt Digz and Antonio were added to the rotation. It was a delight to DJ at Jelly's because we always tried to match or surpass the energy of the band and vice versa so the level of music created at the club was always top notch. The special communication between the band, djs, dancers and audience was unique among salsa clubs in the area and it didn't matter that Jelly's wasn't a luxurious club or offered dance lessons (it never did!). What mattered to the dancers, faithful patrons, visitors, musicians and dj's at Jelly's was only the music! Even though new Sunday venues are popping up to fill the void, Jelly's unique vibe will be sorely missed!

KPFA needs your support!

Lot's of things have been happening that have taken my time away from my blog. I have been working hard the past month with the KPFA fund drive. It is no secret that this 61 year old listener sponsored radio station is in financial trouble going thru job cuts, reducing budgets, shrinking resources and enduring a heated local station board election and on-going internal political struggles. In addition to my duties and obligations as Music Director, I have been extremely busy producing fund drive programs, assisting my fellow on-air hosts in pitching for much needed money and securing premiums for this current drive. It has been a struggle this time which is reflective of our sagging economic situation and it appears that the station is going to fall short of its goal this time. You can contribute to KPFA by going to the web site at www.kpfa.org. If you listen to my program "Con Sabor", please consider supporting the cause, visiting the web site and becoming a member.

Cachao On TV

I was fortunate enough to be a part of the film documentary "Cachao Uno Mas" focusing on the late great music legend Israel Lopez "Cachao". The film is being aired nationally tonight on PBS. In the film, I was caught in the act of interviewing Cachao for my KPFA program "Con Sabor" at the Cigar Bar in San Francisco. A film crew was present to capture Cachao during the course of a weekend as he was being honored at San Francisco State University and later culminating with a fantastic concert at Bimbos 365 Club with Cachao, actor/musician Andy Garcia and the Cineson All Stars with local greats John Santos and Wayne Wallace. The original version of the film premiered at the San Francisco International Film Festival in 2008 and has been screened at various international film festivals. The TV version is a new version of the film with added interviews with Gloria and Emilio Estefan and Arturo Sandoval. This film is a testament to the greatness of this master musician and the gentle, humble human being that was Cachao.

Can't leave out Musica Cubana - Sept 2010

I've been also enjoying some new tracks from the master Cesar "Pupy" Pedroso y Los Que Son Son from his upcoming new release: "Un Loco Con Una Moto", his remakes of "Parece Mentira" and "Ni Bombones Ni Caramelos" and La Batea featuring Omara Portuondo. Maikel (now Maykel) Blanco y Su Salsa Mayor's new "Soy Lo Que Te Hala" for all the timba heads. Septeto Nacional De Ignacio Pineiro for those who love classic son. And who can forget the gorgeous tribute to the latin side of Nat "King" Cole, "L O V E" by mister smooth Issac Delgado joined by legendary jazz vocalist (and Nat's brother) Freddy Cole.

Tidbits on New Music - Sept 2010

Here are some great recordings that have been dominating my play lists: Chucho Valdes and the Cuban Jazz Messengers mesmerizing "Chucho's Steps", the no holds barred slammin' salsa release by Luis "El Tzunami De La Salsa" Gonzalez "Tributo A Un Gigante", the great new live recording "The Latin Side Of Herbie Hancock" by trombonist extraordinare Conrad Herwig with special guests Eddie Palmieri and Randy Brecker; "Providencia", the beautiful new cd by Panama's own Danilo Perez (Wayne Shorter's current #1 choice on piano), the indestructible 73 year old salsa legend Bobby Cruz who demonstrates vocal chops that most singers would die for on his new release "Alma, Tierra y Raices" and the exquisite recording "Motion" by former Jane Bunnett collaborator Hilario Duran and his Trio. Plus I'm still enjoying the music that I brought home from Tempo Latino in late June from AYVA Music based in Spain: pianist Leo Blanco's "Africa Latina" and trumpeter Guillermo Calliero's tango-flamenco-jazz fusion "Barcelona Hora Cero". Add to that great new releases by producer/musician Greg Landau's soundtrack from the film "La Mision", Carne Cruda's "Oakland Tight" and an out of the blue latin-jazz release from ex Bay area resident Silvestre Martinez "Heritage". All killer no filler!

Happy Brithday Benny Velarde!

Legendary Salsa and Latin Jazz timbalero Benny Velarde celebrated his 81st birthday in style at the Glas Kat on Tuesday evening, Sept 7th. The esteemed veteran percussionist who was part of Cal Tjader's seminal Latin Jazz ensemble and who has graced Bay Area stages for over six decades performed with an all star version of his Super Combo. Among the all-stars joining Velarde on stage were John Santos, Orestes Vilato, John Calloway, Monchy Esteves and Jorge Pomar. Velarde was in great spirits as he performed in front of an adoring audience that included his family, long time friends, admirers and dancers both young and older. Diana Bowen, producer of the Mr. Maracas Tuesday salsa nights at the Glas Kat came up with the idea of honoring Velarde. It was a party the entire evening with great music from Velarde and noted Bay Area dj/producer Fab Fred. Benny told me that he has revived the band and will be actively playing again. Good news for salseros everywhere!

Norah and Corinne - A Sweet Escape

I am a person that has a wide musical palate. That being said, I checked out the intriguing double bill of female singer-songwriters Norah Jones and Corinne Bailey Rae at the Greek Theater last Friday. Not only are these two ladies talented but beautiful as well. The English-born Rae is a fine singer who interprets sad, introspective folky neosoul pop. The majority of her songs are sophisticated ballads that aim to hit an emotional response to the listener. Very mellow yet she played compelling up-tempo material including her 2008 breakthrough "Put Your Records On". Norah Jones definitely showed why she was the headliner of the show. She possesses a clear commanding voice that is smokey, warm and soulful. Backed by a top-notch band, Jones came out with a cherry red electric guitar performing songs from her latest recording "The Fall". Jones looking glamourous in her patterned top, low cut blouse, tight jeans and high heels, also played acoustic, electric and toy pianos as she concentrated on newer material which reflected her country, bluesy and pop sides. She also played updated versions of a few of her early tunes which catapulted her into stardom. Her band was excellent which included the guitar wizardry of Smokey Hormel and the sweet vocals of Sasha Dobson.

Aragon - Le Champagne de Las Charangas

The great Orquesta Aragon presented a phenomenal dance concert at Zellerbach Auditiorium on Friday, August 13th. This legendary charanga led by Rafael Lay Jr, the son of the late band leader and violinist, demonstrated that they are one of the finest dance orchestras in the world. Aragon boasted 5 violins (including Lay), flute, piano, bass, timbales, bongo, congas and two dynamic singers drew from their extensive repertoire and played dance music that was sublime, swinging and irresistible. The front area of Zellerbach was turned into a dance floor once the dancers took over and was packed all night. The only draw back to the evening was the light attendance of approximately 700 people that showed up for 2 hours of dance heaven. The band was celebrating their 70th anniversary with the oldest member going back to 1955. However, age didn't slow up this band as some of the oldest grey haired members danced up a storm showing off their moves in front of an adoring crowd. Kudos to Shabi Samoohi, Patricia Morgovsky and Sue Taylor for putting together this treat for the eyes and ears.

And The Beat Goes On

I recently emceed a rock show featuring two of Cuba's forward thinking artists Equis (X) Alfonso and Osamu. Both artists had no problems mixing rock, hip hop, reggae, pop, blues, rumba, salsa and folklore into exciting new fusions of music. Equis Alfonso is a dynamo of a performer who knows how to play practically every instrument, has a terrific presence and singing voice...and knows how to get funky while rapping it down to the audience. It's no wonder that he is a huge star in Cuba! Osamu is an astonishing guitarist and vocalist who leads a powerful rock band that features tv star Yoris on vocals. Performing his fusion of salsa and rock called Rock Con Sabor, he dazzled the crowd with his guitar riffs and danceable melodies. The biggest surprise was his special guest the ageless Pedro Calvo who was THE voice of Los Van Van for many years. Calvo ,nearing 70 was in tip top physical shape and commanding voice, tearing through rock versions of his hits with Los Van Van such as "Sandunguera". Ironically enough, he looked more like a rock star in his trademark soldier style hat, tight t-shirt, leather jeans and silver buckled belt that Equis and Osamu! Both Equis and Osamu produce their own videos and the visuals presented at this Yerba Buena Center of the Arts "New Frequencies" show were outstanding, progressive and fresh!

No More Jelly's Club Havana?

Jelly's in San Francisco has been one of the epicenters of SF Latin music for the past 16 years. I have been a long time resident dj for the past 10 years. The reputation that the club enjoys is based on the Sunday "Club Havana" tardeadas that generated extraordinary salsa and cuban music from both the featured band and the dj much to the delight of both the dancer and the listener. Evidence of this phenomenon is on the Jelly's live music sampler that features Mazacote, Anthony Blea's Charanga, Fito Reinoso and others. The succession of fine talent has been handed down from the beginning when Linda Wosskow and radio dj Chata Gutierrez started the Sunday scene to when Ivette "La Coqui" Fuentes took over as dj to when I started alternating Sundays with La Coqui for many years. After La Coqui parted ways, I kept on the every other Sunday rotation with timba Dj's Walt Digz and Antonio. The club changed direction earlier this year: now Antonio and myself appear monthly and Walt Digz is there every other Sunday.

Jelly's is located at a prime real estate spot at Pier 50 near Pac Bell Park which houses the Giants. The club has been a target of the Fire Department for quite some time and it's no secret that the Port Of SF has wanted Jelly's to move out. Perhaps to make room for a hotel and/or another upscale development. Now the Port of SF has given Jelly's a 30 day eviction notice after an unfortunate shooting that occurred outside the club after a small private party on a Friday evening. The entertainment commission and the police have cleared Jelly's of any involvement and wrong doing. However, the Port has used this incident as an excuse to give the club their eviction notice. There was a protest rumba this past Friday in front of the Port's offices. However the participation and support of the community was strong but light on numbers of people. Jelly's is now playing a chess game with the Port. Clarice Lacau, the owner of the club has obtained a lawyer who is in written communication with Port officials. The eviction deadline is up this week. It is feared that the city may shut down their doors which could be a significant loss and the end of an era in the local salsa scene. Jelly's intends to stay open until the end. More to come.

Todo Tiene Su Final - Tempo Latino 2010

Enrique told me that Sunday was usually the traditional slow final night at Tempo Latino. You couldn't tell by the energetic capacity crowd that attended the Plaza De Toros show featuring trombone titan Jimmy Bosch and his All Stars and La Sucursal SA that evening. Barcelona's La Sucursal SA started the show with a crowd pleasing set that featured original material from both their cd "Lo Nuestro" and their latest ep. The talented musicians of La Sucursal led by bassist/musical director Santiago Acevedo and vocalist Marcelo Rosero played smokin' salsa dura that had the crowd dancing and cheering for more. Their inventive version of Michael Jackson's "Thriller" took everyone by surprise. For their encore, they invited el sonero Herman Olivera and flautist Mitch Frohman from Jimmy Bosch's band to join them on a rousing finale. Jimmy Bosch and his all star ensemble took the stage for a three hour set. Joining Bosch were heavyweights Olivera, trescero Nelson Gonzalez, bassist Mike Vinas, conguero Eddie Montalvo, timbalero Ralph Irrizary, pianist Arturo Ortiz, vocalist Wilito Otero, Frohman and a horn section that included members of La Excelencia and Mercadonegro. Drawing from a mixed repertoire of classic salsa and Bosch's own tunes, these excellent players and singers had plenty of room to improvise and stretch out. What a descarga from this elite group of great players! I was particularly impressed by the fluid piano work of Ortiz, the masterful tres playing of Gonzalez, the soneos of Olivera and the youthful Otero and the trombone mastery of Bosch! Went over to La Conga to catch up with the Barcelona double team of Orquesta Sabor Y Son and DJ Jacoviche who were playing to the die-hards. Sabor Y Son had their moments but the real story was DJ Jacoviche (reminded me of a taller DJ Walt Digz in a cap and athletic suit) slammin' la salsa dura until 5 am when the police finally cut the power. What a fitting end to a Salsa festival such as Tempo Latino! Gracias Enrique, Eric, Louise, the great crew of Tempo Latino and the Antilla crew! I hope that I'll be back soon!!

Saturday was a big day...not only was Puerto Rican diva Choco Orta headlining the festival with Austin's own party band Grupo Fantasma but I was also dj'ing my second night at Tempo Latino. Choco worked the press on Friday: singing at the press gatherings and wanting to be taken seriously as the heir to Celia Cruz's throne. I was only able to check out 3 songs but she clearly showed off her powerful singing voice backed by a swinging band with tight coro singers. Her old school repertoire from her recording "Ahora Mismo" included gems from the Machito and Celia songbook. She danced like a staggering woman possessed by voodoo. She was nervous and self concious on stage but turned into a dynamo as soon as the music started. I missed her fiery conga and timbales solos later in the set as I had to run to start my gig. Grupo Fantasma played a tremendous opening set..more salsafied than when I saw them at South By Southwest. Fantasma was made up of an explosive brass section, screaming guitars, fine lead vocalists and played a set that included cumbia, funk, latin rock, bolero and descarga. Vocalist Jose Galeano took the place of two missing percussionists with fire and chops behind his percussion set of timbales, congas and bongos. Eric Duffau introduced their encore by stating "La Revelacion" to the crowd and revealed that Fantasma had earned themselves a headlining spot in the future. The crowd roared with approval. I started at La Conga earlier than expected because the place was nearly packed by 12:15 am! I tore it up on my first of 3 sets before our musical guests Zulu 9.30, a reggae band from Barcelona started. Zulu 9.30 struck a chord with the partying crowd although the salseros backstage were asking me when I was going to come on. The crowd was screaming for more at the end of their set. I had no choice but to play the best music that I felt at the moment. I started with Bobby Valentin's "Aqui No Me Quedo" and the rest was history-the entire La Conga dance floor was packed with dancers! What a great scene! I loved playing at Tempo Latino!

International Salsa at Tempo Latino 2010

Salsa music took over the main stage of Tempo Latino in all of its international flavors on the course of the following 3 evenings. Friday night's opener, Calambuco impressed the packed Plaza De Toros crowd with their 70's influenced salsa dura sound from Colombia. This vibrant youthful ensemble led by pianist Andres Succar gave the crowd what they wanted: a fine show with a tight band, charismatic singers up-front and an irresistibly danceable sound. Ireland's Salsa Celtica headlined the evening with their unique fusion of traditional Irish music, afro cuban rhythms and salsa. Their instrumentation blended banjo, gaita, irish flute and guitars alongside congas, timbales, bass, piano and horn section. There were moments of explosive fire such as their live version of "El Agua De La Vida" but the novelty wore off for me by the end of the set. La Conga featured the Afro-Caribbean group Grupo Kfe from Paris whose erratic set ranged from tasteful son montuno to tasteless covers of pop salsa hits. El Molestoso dropped a totally unpredictable but tasty dj set that ranged from bugaloo to classic salsa to a Paso Doble!

Opening Night At Tempo Latino 2010!

The lingering rain loomed over the Tempo Latino site cleared up by the time that the opening night festivities started. The World Music night kicked off the festival featuring the acclaimed Ojos De Brujo and pop singer/songwriter Sebastian Avispa. Avispa showed that he had a strong voice but his bland fusion of pop, middle eastern melodies and flamenco was tepid, banal and boring. He was clearly out of place at this festival. Ojos De Brujo had a dynamic opening number featuring their talented flamenco dancer Susana Medina providing the fireworks that framed Marina Abad's vocals. However, Ojos seemed musically sparse due to the absence of two of their key members: DJ Panki and percussionist Xavier Turull. Ojos lacked the spark that have made them such a sensation in past shows that I have seen. However, the action was hot and heavy at La Conga night spot with the all-female French salsa band Yemaya La Banda who turned the crowd on their heads with their smokin' repertoire, campy costumes, dance routines and top notch musicianship. The crowd begged for more at the end of their two hour set. I opened and closed the evening at La Conga with my brand of explosive dance music that kept the crowd dancing and sweating until the wee hours of the morning! The mix was dead-on for both the dancers and the hard-to-please salseros. My first gig at Tempo Latino went great-Sabroso!

Tempo Latino Part 2

Although Thursday, July 22nd was a rainy day in the small French town of Vic-Fezensac, the Tempo Latino festival office was a buzz of excitement. Executive producer Eric Duffau was busy coordinating his crew of paid and unpaid staff for the opening night festivities that featured the Ojos De Brujo concert in the small town's Plaza De Toros (bullfight stadium). Duffau, a gray haired dynamo with great wit and a sincere passion for Latin music greeted my friend, colleague and fellow dj Enrique Romero "El Molestoso" and myself as the technical crew mounted the huge state of the art lighting and sound system on the massive stage that was built inside of the stadium. His dedicated crew of staff and volunteers ran around tending to last minute details before the press conference that officially opened the 17th annual edition of Tempo Latino which ran from the 22nd through Sunday July 25th . Duffau and his crew are part of an non profit association that produces the festival which has featured the creme de la creme of salsa performers from all over the world. Vic-Fezensac was taken over during these four days by thousands of salsa music lovers. The dj duties at the after hours parties at La Conga were handled by Enrique "El Molestoso" on Friday and fellow Barcelonian DJ Jacoviche on Sunday. I handled the dj duties on opening night and on Saturday night following the Choco Orta/Grupo Fantasma show.

Tempo Latino Part 1

My time visiting Europe came and disappeared in a flash! But what a flash it was experiencing the Tempo Latino Festival in the picturesque small French town of Vic-Fezensac. This festival now in its 17th year was full of rumba, soul and most of all...Salsa! The biggest outdoor Salsa festival in all of Europe featured 4 days of music that satisfied the most die-hard fans of Salsa and Latin music. The big outdoor concerts at the Plaza De Toros (bullfight arena) featured 2 prominent acts per night starting at 9:30 pm and going until 1 am. The "La Conga" nightspot was free to the public and featured a band and a dj starting around 12:30 am until closing time at 4:30 am. It was a large space that featured a stage, huge dance floor and a meadow with a sandy floor that could fit 4,000 folks. The festival also had smaller stages with free music that were outside of the Plaza De Toros. A large crafts fair leading from the entrance of the festival to the town featured everything from hats, jewelry to percussion instruments. Vic-Fezensac was alive with music, dancing and rumba! Most cafes and restaurants had their own dj's, small groups and dance instructors...what a scene! The colorful decorations in the festival area were made by the large crew of volunteers who help make Tempo Latino a unique festival.

Tempo Latino

Europe's largest salsa festival Tempo Latino takes place in the town of Vic-Fezensac in the south of France near Toulouse next week from Thursday, July 22 through Sunday, July 25th. I will be traveling to dj two evenings at the annual festival that features an international lineup with a world music flavor this year. Past Tempo Latino festivals have featured the who's whos of Latin Music. Headlining will be Trombonist extraordinare Jimmy Bosch's all star band featuring top sonero Herman Olivera, PR salsa diva/percussionist Choco Orta, World music sensation Ojos De Brujo, Salsa Celtica from Ireland, Barcelona salsa dura from La Sucursal, Austin's favorite party band Grupo Fantasma, solid salsa from Colombia's Calambuco and Italo-Andoleuse vocalist Sebastian Avispa with his tasty fusion. Joining me in the after hour sessions at Le Conga which start at 1 am will be the French all female salsa band Yemaya La Banda on the 22nd and Barcelona fusionists Zulu 9.3. I'm am excited about playing music for the European salsa scene. Para el bailador y los exigentes con sabor! For more information, go to tempolatino.org. I will be reporting on the festival in the near future...check this blog.

Otra Vission

When you check out who is going to perform in the SF Bay such as Elio Reve Y Su Charangon, Grupo Niche, Jose Alberto "El Canario", Joe Arroyo, Orquesta Aragon, Oro Solido...you have to pinch yourself to realize that this isn't a dream. Wow! We have a renaissance of fantastic music coming our way. But we also need to remember to big up our own fine acts in the Bay. In that regard, the new recording by Vission Latina entitled "Sonando Como Un Canon" is a fine example of great musicians in our mist. Pianist/trumpeter Marco Diaz, bassist Saul Sierra and percussionist Carlos Caro are not household names yet but they will be if they keep producing the dynamic music heard on this new cd. They make up one of the hottest rhythm sections anywhere having been a part of John Santos Sextet, Anthony Blea's Charanson, Jesus Diaz y su QBA and other varied musical icons. This recording will features a myriad of styles including timba, son, cha cha cha and rumba is a joy to the listener and dancer. They are joined by Eduardo Herrera, Ramon "Monchy" Esteves, Carlos Soto, Felix Samuel and Jose Roberto Hernandez...what a powerful group of soneros joining in on this tasty stew. Kudos to the amazing blind percussionist Julio Perez who adds to the instrumental fire power of this cd. For more information, visit www.vissionlatina.com

Mas Viejo Pero Sabroso

I have been celebrating my birthday since this past Wednesday. My birthday was actually on Friday, June 25th. Friends and family made sure that I celebrated my birthday in style. I appreciate all the fine friends, acquaintances and contacts that I have made in the music, radio and media business. I am blessed and gratified to still be a part of the music scene in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond for so many years. Now the challenge is to continue to do the hard work and deliver consistently with quality and not rest on one's laurels or complacency. Yes, I am ready to meet that challenge....born ready!

Been Too Busy To Write...but I'm back!

this month has been incredible! Great shows that I've seen this month have been Silvio Rodriguez who mesmerized the crowd at the Paramount in Oakland...talk about audience participation! The crowd was singing along and shouting out their political comments and expressing their love at this esteemed troubadour who sang beautifully with his prolific and ageless voice. His band was a top notch group of flawless instrumentalists who graced his every tune. On the other side of the spectrum, Cesar "Pupy" Pedroso y Los Que Son Son demonstrated why they were worthy of that name with virtuosity, style, showmanship and non-stop quality modern Cuban dance music. Pedroso in spectacular form, played flawlessly, smiled at the adoring crowds at both Cocomo and Yoshi's while leading this powerhouse of a band. The front line of Rusdell, El Noro and Michel Perez were fun to watch. Each possessed a great voice to go along with their unique look, grind and dance steps. El Gran Combo kicked off the month with a swinging set at Cafe Cocomo showcasing their new hit "Sin Salsa No Hay Paraiso" and proving once again why they are one of the top Salsa bands in the planet.

Life Is Good

Sometimes we have to take the time to appreciate all the beauty that surrounds us. When we are closed minded, too busy, short of time, lost in thoughts about our troubles...we lose sight of the little things and the people that make life worth living. We need to take a moment to appreciate that we wake up every morning to a new day. How that day turns out is completely up to us. Life is good when we take advantage of that opportunity to make things better.

Carnaval has come and gone!

Carnaval SF 2010 has gone into the record books. It came and was gone in a flash! I was only able to visit for a couple of hours on early Saturday afternoon with my wife and son. There was a time when I used to spend months perhaps an entire year planning, organizing and presenting the entertainment on four different stages for Carnaval but that was a long time ago when there was still real money around to support events for the community. Until recently, our radio station KPFA was one of the sponsors of the stages as well....unfortunately, that's also in the past as well. Now I'm just a spectator checking out the new generation of carnavalescos, bands, promoters, djs and scene makers do their thing. I wasn't impressed by anything this year really because I've seen everything that could happen and has happened in Carnaval...however I was impressed that SFCAT was able to pull it off this year anyway and kept the spirit of Carnaval alive for the freshly initiated, the fans and guys like me. John Calloway's SF State Student Salsa/Afro Cuban big band played the best music the whole time I was there. I visited the Havana Pavilion where Dark Rum, Walt Digz, Nick & Serena and company were setting things up despite lacking a huge tent. Their spirits were still high while they were doing the hard work. We actually went there to see Mestiza who didn't play after all which disappointed all of us. When I inquired back stage about their non appearance, Jimmy, a gruff young guy who ran the show told me that they had a "keyboard issue". What happened? The keyboard player didn't show up? Well..the ups and downs of a big festival! Meanwhile, Calloway and company had the crowd riled up though...dancing and cheering to those great tunes played by smiling students who were stars for an hour on a glorious sunny day!

Palmieri

I saw the sun of Latin Music last night, the great maestro Eddie Palmieri y La Perfecta II at Yoshis in San Francisco. Talk about salsa expertly played by an ensemble of greats led by a master who has spent five decades creating unforgettable Latin music. Palmieri effortlessly led an all star ensemble through a smokin' set featuring explosive versions of "Ritmo Caliente", "Sujetate La Lengua" and "Cuidate Compay". The 9 time Grammy Award winner performed music that was too irresistible for both the dancers and listeners in the crowd at Yoshis. Eddie will be releasing a new DVD of a live performance soon but check him out now!!

I'm baaaaacccckk!

I know it's been a while since I have talked to all of you. I spent some quality time with my family..recharged my batteries. What a Mothers Day weekend! Caught Manolito Y Su Trabuco at Cocomo. Although it took them a while to resolve their equipment issues, they rocked the crowd with a powerful show...la gente con las manos arriba..smiles abound..great music mostly on the timba side. The crowd on the light side appreciated every minute. Jumped over to the massive Luis Enrique salsa dance/concert at the Hilton on time to catch the tail end of the spectacle. Luis Enrique sounding good to an adoring packed crowd...the show started at 6 pm with 9 scheduled deejays, 3 local acts including crowd favorites Avance and the emerging Montuno Swing..and Proyecto A from the old Adolecentes from Venezuela. Yes, I missed all of that but caught "el principe de la salsa" en su gloria in jeans and t-shirt....ah..those stars can get away with it when they go platinum!

Cinema Cinema and more Cinema

I have been immersing myself into the world of film by going to the 53rd San Francisco International Film Festival. I have been a film buff since I was a kid (I have to thank my mom for my exposure to movies!). So I'm thrilled to have checked out the opening night screening of the delightfully wacky French film "Micmacs", attended a discussion with this year's Oscar winner for best song, T-Bone Burnett sharing his experience about making music for film and going to see new Latin cinema such as the poetic Columbian film "The Wind Journeys" and the revealing documentary about the tragic fall of iconic Brazilian entertainer Wilson Simonal. I'm looking forward to going to a tribute to the great filmmaker/director Walter Salles who directed the oscar winning "Central Station" and the sensational "The Motorcycle Diaries".

Ch..ch...changes!

Well, musical chairs are being played in the concert scene. I was looking forward to seeing Manolito at Yoshis. Now those shows have been canceled. David Calzado's Charanga Habanera has also been canceled at Cocomo. Now, Manolito is scheduled to take their place on May 8th at Cafe Cocomo. However, the big Luis Enrique salsa dance with Adolecentes, Avance, Montuno Swing and others is still taking place on the 8th at the SF Hilton. Now if you're a big tropical Latin music freak like me, there is a dilemma if you want to see both gigs that evening. I also have my radio show that evening so I will attempt to be at 3 different places at the same time that evening...I been practicing my magic.

The Cuban Invasion SF/Bay Area Style

One of my favorite modern Cuban bands is Manolito Y Su Trabuco led by pianist Manolito Simonet. Their repertoire includes some of the finest interpretations of timba, charanga, son and salsa today. Their ability to deliver anthemic songs with an irresistible swing such as "Marcando La Distancia", "Caballo Grande" and "Communicate" have made them into one of the top draws in Cuba and a top touring act. They continue to put out great recordings and their live shows are incendiary. I never saw them live but on the dvd "Break Out" which came out a few years ago showcases the Trabuco in their timba drenched glory. This dvd which features a mano a mano between the popular Bamboleo and the Trabuco is well worth checking out. Now I will be able to finally check out Manolito and company absolutely live since they are visiting the Bay Area for the first time on Wed, May 5 (Cinco De Mayo) and Thursday, May 6, 8 and 10 pm at Yoshis, 1330 Fillmore, SF.

Graciela RIP

Graciela Perez-Grillo was one of those legendary figures in our music who made an undeniable impact. Blessed with a great voice, impeccable timing, clear phrasing and a sense of humor, she sang with passion and style. Those classic Machito tunes that she recorded with her brother and husband Mario Bauza still stand the test of time. She enjoyed a renaissance in the late 80's and 90's when she and Mario Bauza collaborated on his last big band recordings. Now her music will be passed on to a new generation with open ears that appreciates classic dance music and loves to dance to it as well as the fans who loved her. Celia Cruz, La India, Albita, Elena Burke and many other divas owe a big debt to Graciela who was the first one to open the door. Blessed are the pioneers.

Sin Salsa No Hay Paraiso!

"Sin Salsa No Hay Paraiso" is the title of the new El Gran Combo cd on Sony which is definitely worth picking up! They are sounding solid as ever. I dare you to put this cd on and NOT dance. It is a fine example of music that is written, produced and performed well by one of the finest salsa orchestras in the world. Period. That is no small feat for a band that pushing 50 years in show business. It's available on I Tunes for all of you who can't wait for your local record store (do they still exist?) or mail order house to ship it to you! Pa' bailar y sudar!

The Yin and the Yang - Noticias/Live Music

I just found out that the scheduled Elio Reve Jr. Y Su Charangon show on the 23rd of this month has been cancelled. What a bummer since I missed Reve in Barcelona last summer. Hopefully, he will be rescheduled soon. The David Calzado/Charanga Habanera show has also been cancelled for the beginning of next month. That leaves Juan Formell and Los Van Van as THE big Cuban show to look forward to in the future. They will be appearing at Yoshis in June with 2 nights in San Francisco and 2 nights in Oakland. In the meantime, the revamped Seis Del Solar featuring original members pianist/musical director Oscar Hernandez and timbalero Ralphy Irrizary will be performing this coming Wednesday and Thursday at Yoshis in SF. Now this isn't the reunited original band that has been working with Ruben Blades on dates outside the country this past year. However, they have some dynamic firepower with the dynamic talents of bassist Ruben Rodriguez, saxophonist Bobby Franceschini, drummer Dafnis Preito and conguero Bobby Allende. Should be one hot show. If that wasn't enough, Omar Sosa and his acclaimed Afreecanos group visit Yoshis, Oakland on Friday, April 16 through Sunday, April 18. Check him out on Art Sato's "In Your Ear" program Saturday, April 17 from 4 to 6 pm on KPFA.

Variety is the spice...

I caught the amazing Janelle Monae at an intimate gig at Cafe Du Nord in the city last night. This petite striking beauty who sports a fluff of a pompadour of sorts was both original in her look as she was in her music. You could say that she was reminiscent of a Grace Jones of 2010 but had an abundance of talent and style. Fronting a powerful three piece band consisting of guitar, keyboards and drums, Monae performed her version of a movie musical entitled "The Archandroid". Monae amply displayed her powerful, soulful voice on top of a bed of angular, rn'b influenced modern rock. She had the sold out crowd going wild while she was singing songs from her "movie" complete with stage sets, film credits and tons of atmosphere. SXSW...what?

Shows I did miss somehow, etc.

I managed to introduce Tito Gonzalez Y Su Son De Cuba's first set at Yoshis in Oakland before I had to run to my station's sponsored show with Bassekou Kouyate at Slims in SF's South of Market district - so I missed Tito's set! I also missed Pepito Gomez with a SF based timba band...but I wasn't the only one who missed it-I heard that it was a light crowd. I'll probably miss the upcoming SF Salsa Festival as well. I must be old school but back in the day, the salsa festivals in the 70's, 80's and 90's had big groups like the Fania All Stars, Tito Puente, Eddie Palmieri or a ton of our local salsa heroes at the Greek Theater, the Cow Palace or the huge ballroom at the Marriott or the St. Francis Hotel. Although this affair has selective "dancer's" dj's such as Fab Fred & El De La Clave, they only have one band: Doug Beavers' Conjunto Rovira and their primary focus is on salsa dance troupes. Now with all due respect to all the great salsa dance troupes that are out there and I do enjoy attending the annual Salsa Congress that features great headliners, dancers, dj's, etc. I also dj to a lot of fine dancers myself at both Cocomo and Jelly's. I think that they should have named the gig "The SF Salsa Dancer's Festival" which would have been more accurate. In my opinion, you need to have a cavalcade of great bands and other essential elements if you're going to live up to the name "The San Francisco Salsa Festival". That's what this great city deserves! Nuff said.

Catching Up

Well, this was the week I didn't make down to my annual trip to the South By Southwest Music Conference and Showcase in Austin, Texas due to complications. Although nothing can compensate for the missed interviews, networking, showcases, panels, parties....but I did manage to catch amazing sets by Gil Scott Heron (who did a hilarious standup comedy routine in addition to his great soulful songs!) and Malian gnobi master Bassekou Kouyate who plays a wicked spiked lute that sounds like a banjo. An enthusiastic Taj Mahal was cheering Kouyate on from the audience until he was called up on stage to deliver a soulful blues. The world is so small and the connections are deep! Brazilian music icon Gilberto Gil was also performing in the Bay Area with his son Bern and cellist Jacques Morlenbaum. SXSW? There's always next year.

March 2010 dj tidbits

Personal DJ dates coming up: Saturday 3/13 with Louie Romero y Mazacote (NY style salsa at its best) at Cafe Cocomo in SF. Jake handles the dance lessons starting at 8:30 pm. Sunday 3/14 - a Cuban bachanal with el sonero mayor Fito Reinoso y su Ritmo Y Armonia from 4 to 9 pm at Jelly's Club Havana...should be a sweat fest. I'll be putting it in the mix: timba caliente, salsa dura y mas! I'm there monthly now so I'm ready to tear the roof off! No dance lessons...sorry! Joining mi amigo DJ y Rapero Santero later in the month on Wednesday, 3/24 at Lukas, Broadway at West Grand in Oakland - set at 10 pm. Ending the month with Mr. Suave-Julio Bravo y Salsabor over at Cocomo on Saturday, 3/27.

New East Bay Spots for Salsa and Timba

Checked out the newly resurrected Caribe on Thursday night over at the Karibbean City in Downtown Oakland. One of the bay area's hot emerging bands Montuno Swing were the featured band along with house dj Carlitos Way. The club looked better than it has in quite some time: new paint job, renovated dance floor, added area seating, vip area and large projection screen. Although the club needs to tweak the boomy sound and the drinks a bit on the expensive side ($10 for a Barcardi and coke) , the place holds a lot of promise for a regular Thursday night East Bay spot for Salsa. The club has only been open for 8 weeks and the crowd is still building. This is the fourth resurrection of the Caribe since its birth as a Thursday night salsa spot in the late 80's. Producer Luis Mendoza is hoping that the place will appeal to both the original patrons as well as the new generation of dancers. This is the second new addition to the East Bay scene if you are counting the hot timba Friday nights over at the Mint Leaf Restaurant in West Berkeley which feature a rotation of timba spinners. This small space is packed full of timbaleros who have moved over from the scene at the late Taza Del Cafe.

A Musical Tsunami with Issac Delgado

Just got back from Hawaii where I was there to attend my goddaughter's wedding - a beautiful ceremony that was delayed due to a tsunami warning. Thank god nothing happened! However, right before I left for Hawaii, I had the pleasure of emceeing the pair of Issac Delgado shows at the beautiful Bimbos 365 Club in SF for the opening night of the SF Jazz Spring Season. What a pair of exciting shows! Issac was totally into the shows-charismatic, engaging the audience and effortlessly singing with his trademark smooth voice. He fronted a powerful band consisting of an explosive five piece horn section, 2 keyboards (one played by his son), a dancing bass player and an explosive rhythm section. Issac is one of the original voices of timba going back to the late 80's/early 90's with NG La Banda (que manda!) . Issac got everyone on the dance floor with his blend of Cuban salsa and timba with material taken from his last 2 recordings "En Primera Plana" and "Asi Soy" He also threw in pregones from soneros such as Beny More and improvised parts of songs for the audience in between songs. Now that was a musical tsunami!

Carnaval Time!

Of course, it's Carnaval and Mardi Gras time. I remember when I was totally involved with organizing the acts as entertainment director for Carnaval SF back in 1983 and from 1986 to 1998. What a flood of great memories! I was also involved with Carnaval as radio sponsor through KPFA for a great many years during this past decade. I was fortunate enough to work with artists such as Willie Colon, Santana, the Mighty Sparrow, Luis Enrique, Eddie Palmieri, Arrow, Shaggy, Calypso Rose, Michael Franti, Merle Saunders, Flora Purim and Airto, Libre, Los Hombres Calientes and countless others. I have seen my share of sequined dancing beauties, drum troupes, great bands, massive crowds as well as backstage drama, disorganization and ego trips. Ah..the yin and the yang! But all the good people that I have worked with bring to me the rich memories that are the best. I've lost some good people along the way such as one of my favorite stage managers Ethan Fox and great artists such as Carlos Acietuno who passed away at too young an age. I'll raise a glass and drink a Hurricane to your memory, my brothers. Representing KPFA as an active radio sponsor of live music, I have been fortunate to have emceed shows with Daniella Mercury, Milton Nacimento, Marisa Monte, Bebel Gilberto and the beat literally goes on!

Rumbankete

The other great act that I caught was the Cuban timba big band Rumbankete from Los Angeles at Yoshis in Oakland this past Thursday night. This explosive band led by trombonist Denis Jiron were playing their timba drenched sounds to a packed dance floor. Made up of 2 violins, 3 trombones, bass, keyboards, drum set, timbales, congas and fronted by 3 charismatic vocalists, Rumbankete played a combination of original material and covers of tunes by Los Van Van and Elio Reve. Potent stuff! Denis told me that the band will be releasing a single in the next month and a new cd should be coming out later this year. Check them out the next time that they swing by the Bay Area...don't sleep on this band.

On the other end of the spectrum of music I like...

I have checked out two exciting new acts in two very distinctive scenes in the past week. British based pop soul vocalist VV Brown put on a spectacular show at Popscene at 330 Ritch last week. This tall, striking Jamaican/Puerto Rican beauty has a style all her own mixing pop, reggae, hip hop and Brazilian batucada rhythms into her catchy songs. VV came out in a Carnaval head dress, gold lame blouse and checkered pant suit-these English acts certainly have a wicked sense of style. She possess a powerful set of pipes. She tore through a cover of Drake's "The Best I Ever Had" infusing this hit with dub and reggae. This Capitol recording artist is definitely someone to look out for...a star in the making. She'll be at South By Southwest in Austin next month.

Issac Delgado Returns to the Bay Area

Cuban vocal superstar Issac Delgado returns to the SF Bay Area to perform at the classy 30's style supper club Bimbos 365 Club, 1025 Columbus Avenue in San Francisco on Friday, Feb. 19. These KPFA Radio sponsored shows at the SF Jazz Spring Season will take place at 8 and 10:30 p.m. Anyone who has seen Issac before know that they can expect an explosive show from Issac whose smooth vocal style fits in perfectly from salsa to cha cha to timba with more than enough charisma to melt any crowd. His orchestra is a tight, well rehearsed band with an ample horn section, two keyboards, bass, full percussion section and two background vocalists. In past shows, he has performed songs from various aspects of his noteworthy career. Be ready for fireworks and to sweat at Bimbos! I will be in the house as master of ceremonies for the evening.

New Local Gold, New Scenes, New Year

Now that we're into 2010, I want to remind all of you that we have great musicians, singers and bands in the San Francisco Bay Area that we should all be supporting in these tough times. Even though the old saying is that the cream always rises to the top, sometimes people don't get the props that they deserve and get sadly overlooked. So do go out, check out the local greats as well as the new local gold - don't take the local scene for granted. Crowds came out to support events such as the recent Voices Of Latin Rock extravaganzas that showcased the finest in Latin Rock and Latin Jazz and Seaon Stylist Bristol's ambitious latin Broadway style tribute to Michael Jackson "Rock With You" featuring Rebeca Mauleon's powerhouse of a band. The new local gold features emerging faces that are making noise these days: Montuno Swing, the Latin Rhythm Boys, Lina G. Torio's Mestiza, Carne Cruda and their new project with Brazilian firecracker Dandara, Santero (blowing up all over!), Saboriche, Bang Data and many others that I will bring to your attention during this year. So remember to keep your mind and ears open...porque lo que viene es bueno!

Blessed to Live In The Bay Area - 2010 Edition

I am truly blessed to live in one of the music meccas of the United States where I can enjoy artists from all over the world. The SF Bay Area boasts an incredible slew of talent as well as being a port where major talent visits us on a consistent basis. During these first two months of the new year, we will have Salsa, Cuban and Latin Jazz music concerts in this area by the likes of emerging Cuban piano star Alfredo Rodriguez, the Puerto Rico Golden All Stars with Eric Figueroa (of Batacumbele fame), Richie Flores, Endel Dueno, Ramon Vasquez and the legendary flamboyant violinist Alfredo De La Fe, Issac Delgado, Eddie Santiago, Victor Manuelle, the second annual Salsa Rueda Festival and L.A.'s timba big band Rumbankete. This is all happening despite an awful economic down turn and in the two slowest months of the year in terms of business due to the support of all of you who go to these shows. Que vida!

Best Recordings of 2009

This past year offered great music in the genres of salsa, latin jazz, timba and afro-cuban from the latest to some great compilations of vintage material. Here are my picks:

Mario Ortiz All Star Band "Tributo 45 Anniversario"

Latin Giants Of Jazz "Ven Baila Conmigo"

Edwin Clemente "Aqui Traigo La Rumba, Bailador"

Cuban Masters Ensemble "Del Pasado Al Presente"

Tiempo Libre "Bach A Havana"

Jimmy Bosch "A Millon"

Arnaldo Y Su Cosmopolita "En Otra Direccion"

Calle Real "Me Lo Gane"

Sonora Poncena "55 Anniversario"

Ismael Miranda "De Regreso Al Son"

Orestes Vilato "It's About Time"

Concha Buika/Chucho Valdes "El Ultimo Trago"

Coto Pincheira "The Sonido Moderno Project"

Various "Tite Curet Alonso: Alma De Poeta" (2 cd tribute)

Tito Rodriguez "El Inolvidable" (2 cd retrospective)

Alexander Abreu/Havana d'Primera "Haciendo Historia"

Yumuri Y Sus Hermanos "Cubano Cubano"

La Excelencia "Mi Tumbao Social"

Miguel Zenon "Esta Plena"

Wayne Wallace Latin Jazz Quintet "Bien Bien"

Los Soneros De Gallo "Gallos De Pelea"

Nestor Torres "Nouveau Latino"

Aymee "Corazon Sonero"

Recent releases out of the oven:

Venezuelan Masters Orchestra "Live In France: Dux Toros Y Salsa"

DJ Ricky Campanelli (w/El Nino Jesus) "Salsa Como Debe Ser"

Los Soneros Boricuas y Estrellas De Envidia "De Un Pajaro Las Dos Alas"

Avance "Incontrolable"

Honorable Mentions:

Alberto Barros "Mano A Mano"

Conjunto Imagen "Afinando"

Choco Orta "Ahora Mismo"

Best Local Recording that you don't know about yet:
Various Artists "Live At Jelly's - Club Havana"
Lina G. Torio "Mestiza" EP