Ochún

EDITOR'S PICK- BEST OF 2006

Yes, it's that time of the year again folks. It's when we assess all of the material we've heard this past year and make a humble attempt at distilling it down to a manageable handful that represent the best releases of the year. I use the term 'represent' very intentionally here: Use this list as a starting point, as there were lots of great CDs that could have easily been included if not for our arbitrary, self-imposed, limits. My personal list shows the strength and vitality of local independent salsa projects like those of 8 y Más, Lefty Pérez and "Little" Johnny Rivero. Colombia played a big role this year too: Benedict & The Magic Band, Alberto Caicedo, and Real Charanga prove that South America is keeping the flame high and bright. Pushing the envelope is something I look for in new releases, and bands like Ochún, Mamborama, and the Cuban singer Telmary are doing things that go beyond their associated genres. Additionally some familiar names like Roberto Roena and Africando released new projects that were just to good not to include here. This year we've also included the Best Reissues of the year as well as these additional categories: Best Folkloric Release, Best Compilation, and Best DVDs. My picks are listed below, followed by Peter Watrous' and then by John Child's reissue recommendations. Enjoy, and the best for 2007!

— Bruce Polin, NYC

En El Año De Ochún

Category: SALSA/SON; SALSA

Editors Pick:

Wow, what pure salsa pleasure we've got here! The opening track, "La Esquína De Galiano (A Bailar Con Rita)" will embrace you with its almost jarring musical integrity. I was delighted to discover that they've included an extended version of this title as the last track. But "La Equína..." is not the only great track on El Año De Ochún. Far from it. This is Ochún's second release, and this New York orchestra is really coming into its own: clearly dedicated students of the great Afro-Cuban traditions. These are well-worked, rich, multi-layered compositions that speak volumes about the earnestness and depth of the musicians as well as the ingenuity of arranger Pablo Moya. This is a first class project that should not be missed. It's not the fastest, hottest, hippest or whatever. Ochún does not seem to be interested in any of those labels. This band is so soulful that even the one bolero, "Un Beso Y Un Adios," rang true and nearly conjured a tear from this jaded listener. And what a lush, moving version of the charanga classic "Camagüey." It's just gorgeous. Great job by vocalist Miguel Garcia. Also kudos to pianist-vocalist Paul Armstrong, conguero/timbalero Gabriel (Chinchilita) Machado, sax and flute player Ocavio Ponce, bassists Gregg August and Guillermo Edgehill and many others. Guests include Oriente Lopez and Mauricio Smith Jr., Meilana McLean Gillard and others. Note to up-and-coming bands out there: Study this CD hard. It's a gem.