Search - Arte Mixto :: Arte Mixto: Sin Chisme

What a beautiful album.....

D. Pawl | Seattle | 11/11/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"SIN CHISME, the second follow up to VIRGINIA DE CUBA, Cuban ensemble Arte Mixto's fiery debut, does not fail to disappoint. This stunningly beautiful collection of up-tempo and melodious songs will have your feet dancing and your heart soaring. Melding Afro-Cuban rhythms and musicality with stirringly poetic lyrics, this beautiful group truly brings all it has to this 2001 release.



The album opens on a highly syncopated note with "La Maraca [The Maraca]," with great vocals by lead singer and violinist Alexis Correa. His approach to singing is unlike many I have heard and almost defied description. His has a clear, bright and sparkly tone that's strong without being cocky. The song is about the sound of the instrument, the maraca, and how it draws people to dance (which is exactly what I felt like doing after hearing this). The other songs do not fail to disappoint. Another favorite of mine is "Sin Comentarios [Without Commentary]," the title track. The track basically discusses the dangers of slander. One of my favorite lines in the song goes, "La lengua es como el veneno/Si no la usas para el bien/Hay muchas cosas mejores/Que hablar de otros por hablar/No pierdas tu tiempo en eso/Y ocupate de vivir" (translation: "Language is like poison/If you don't use it for good/There are many better things/That others can talk about/Don't waste your time with this/And get on with your life"). So insightful, intelligent and imaginative! And, last but not least, another favorite (for sure) is "El Dinero" [Money], which discusses how money corrupts society if one does not have a healthy approach to it, that balances material with the importance of aspects of life (love, your health). It also asks all who listen to maintain faith, if they do not have money and use their minds ("Si no tienes dinero/Manten la fe/Utiliza tu mente"--translation "If you don't have money/Maintain the faith/Use your mind").



I really recommend that all buy this album. Whether you are a native Spanish speaker, someone studying the language or just an avid lover of music, this beautiful album will completely stir your heart and move your soul."