Search - Various Artists :: Cuban Counterpoint: History of the Son Montuno

One of the two best Cuban discs in existence

M. H. Bayliss | 05/26/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Along with "el son es el mas sublime," this is the other disc you must own if you like the whole BVSC thing. Unlike BV, these are the original recordings, but if you don't buy these CD's before they go out of print, you may never be able to hear authentic Cuban music from the 30's and 40's. Every song is a classic. I like para bailar el montuno myself, but every song is great. The notes are helpful and the selection unbeatable. Truly a superlative disc. One of the few Cuban discs that showcases all the various country styles: guajira, changui, son and son montuno."

This is it! Cuban Music Central!

Rolando | 08/20/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've been introduced to Cuban music by BVSC, a few years ago. My wife is a professional musician and we love the rythms of Carribean and esp. Cuban music. Since them, I've had a chance to delve more into Cuban music, which I adore, and even travel to Cuba with a professional percussionist who worked with such musicians as Riccardo Egues (hi Andy!)This CD is such a treat. Don't let yourself be put off by the first tracks (if you listen to the samples and wonder why the reviews are so high), they're field recordings and lack the excitement and energy of the other ones which will just blow you away. But this means also they are authentic, and will provide you with a great panorama across the century of the son montuno. You can't hope for a better introduction, or recap, of this great musical genre. And with so few recordings of Arsenio Rodriguez or of the Se(p/x)teto Habanero and Nacional on the market, this is a unique chance. Seize it while it lasts!Along the Estrellas de Areito, these are by far the best two buys of Cuban music I did this year. If you're on a limited budget, don't give in to the BVSC thing, save yourself for the good stuff. This is much better!"

Phenomenal

Rolando | 12/29/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There are so many great performances on this album, most notably Arsenio Rodriguez's four tracks, which steal the show. This is a phenomenal introduction to Cuban music--expect to be hooked."