Search - Trio Matamoros :: China En La Rumba

A Masterpiece

BennyG | New york, NY United States | 03/04/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Trio Matamoros is probably the most influential group ever in the history of Cuban music. Beginning in the 1920s, they were pioneers of the Cuban son, which has evolved into the music we now call 'Salsa'. Their songs are still being re-interpreted today by popular groups, and are ubiquitous in many parts of Latin America.



In the early days, son was roughly divided into two categories, the big band conjunto format performed by groups like Sexteto Habanero, and the more guitar based trio format of which Matamoros were the greatest exponents. The typical Matamoros arrangement has two guitars, a maracas, and of course the three voices. 'Trio' really refers to these three voices - many 'Trio' Matamoros recordings also have acoustic bass, bongo, and clave - some even have a trumpet.



Matamoros' style of singing ranges from a more trova or bolero-son style on songs like "Mariposita de Primavera" and "Juramento" to the upbeat call and response of "Hojas para baño" or "Alegre Conga". Their most pervasive style is the bolero-son, which usually opens with a melodic, slow tempo, romantic bolero style with rich vocal harmonies, but after two verses transitions into an up-tempo call and response between the lead voice and the chorus.



The guitar and voice on this album are raw and soulful. Matamoros have a natural flowing sound that is intensely musical. In comparison, music being made today sounds much more choreographed.



Out of the many Matamoros compilations in circulation, this is the best. There isn't a song on it that isn't a classic, and the sequencing and re-mastering is artful and professional. The songs selected here, from the 1930s and 40s, are from the peak of their career. After years of listening, I have yet to tire of this album. Once you have it, you will fall in love with it.



A good companion to this collection is Tumbao's "The Legendary Trio Matamoros", which features songs from earlier in their career (also classics in their own right)."