As Latin compilations go, this is far from complete. Which isn't to say that it's not good -- how could anything with the wonderful Ruben Gonzalez and Jimmy Bosch be bad? -- but it just lacks a lot. Cuba's perhaps too heavily represented, while many of the traditions are missing. But by its very nature, with only 13 tracks that's bound to be the case. The best solution is not to think of it as a full Latin collection, but rather a bit of a grab bag. Los Van Van are one of Cuba's longest-running and most innovative bands; "La Titimania," sadly, doesn't find them flexing the muscle they can do at their best. However, percussionist Daniel Ponce leads a fiery ensemble on "No Comprendo," and Gonzalez's "Cumbanchero," with its familiar melody, becomes a dizzying delight as his piano kicks into a solo. Interestingly, the most exciting track isn't entirely Latino, but by American-born and based Jimmy Bosch, with the salsa of "Otra Oportunidad," his trombone playing in full effect. Enjoy the music that's here -- just understand its limitations. ~ Chris Nickson, All Music Guide
Mondo Latino (Ark 21)
03/26/2002 | Ark 21
All Music Guide Review
Mondo Latino (Ark 21) Track Listing
Credits of Mondo Latino (Ark 21)
- Eddie Palmieri
- Performer
- Cal Tjader
- Performer
- Jimmy Bosch
- Performer
- Miles Copeland
- Executive Producer
- Gerald Seligman
- Liner Notes, Executive Producer, Sequencing, Compilation
- Steve Tannett
- Executive Producer
- Afro-Cuban All Stars
- Performer
- Demetrio Muniz
- Arranger
- Dale Voelker
- Graphic Design
- Mara Abboud
- Cover Art
- Su Son
- Performer
- NG la Banda
- Performer
- Adalberto Alvarez
- Performer
- Los Van Van
- Performer
- Daniel Ponce
- Performer











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