Orquesta Los Sopranos - Cada Quien

Had enough of edgy Salsa music? Switch up today for some Cuban tropical goodness!

This song is energetic and Rueda-friendly thansk to the Cubano rhythms present. For hardcore mambo dancers, there are only a handful of useful breaks for those of you men & ladies who like shines and styling, but that doesn't lose the fact that this is a fun song to dance to on your weekend socials. The tricky question is WHEN and WHERE to place this song, given its happy and tropical feel, but I'm sure I can work something out.

Have a listen and tell me what you think?

Orquesta Los Sopranos - Cada Quien




Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Tarzana - Baila Con Tarzana

Something I came across - I admit the name was cute so I checked out the song. Turns out to be some sort of slightly jazzy, Columbian Boogaloo fusion Salsa song. It's pretty entertaining but like many old school Boogaloo songs, it tends to get a little monotonous - largely due to the rhythm pattern. The looonngg run-time doesn't help either. Even the instrumental break with the trumpets has similarities to a very familiar veteran Columbian band.

I suspect this will be a good 'build-up' song building to one of the 'power' songs. What do you dancers think?

Tarzana - Baila Con Tarzana

Let me know what you think about it after dancing to it THIS FRIDAY!! That's right. I'll be making another appearance in Paradox on Salsa Friday, 30th October 2015!



Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Son Cremita - La Musica

Ever so often we attend classes and workshops on musicality related to Salsa dancing. In those classes or workshops, one thing consistently mentioned by Instructors is to take note of how a particular music makes you feel, and subsequently musicality is how the dancer responds to such feeling(s).

This song is smooth and whimsical in its melody. It gives you the impression that you're in a rural countryside with a crusty live band playing for you. Almost carefree. Then as the music builds up slowly to its climax, you get a short and sweet guitar solo towards the end. And then it starts, the choir comes together and you feel the end coming and you get more frantic.... before it smooths out to end. Yes I know how it sounds like, but good music affects you similarly.

Son Cremita - La Musica

Check it out and let me know what you think about it!



Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Avenida B - Ten Cuidao

I really like Avenida B. They utilize smooth melodies and new awesome grooves to classic mambo. It's Dura in many ways, but not overly so, if that makes sense to you. Dancers ought to rejoice at Orquestas like this because it brings so much to the dancing plate! Clear and clean breaks give partnerwork a nice rest before continuing and dyamic beats ensure that your Salsa doesn't not feel monotonous even if you're going with the 'no-shines' method.

Have a listen by clicking on the link below:

Avenida B - Ten Cuidao

What do you think?




Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Conjunto Jaguey - Maruca

Continuing Day 3 of DJ Dom's 7 Days of Salsa, I bring to you the Song of the Day, Conjunto Jaguey's 'Maruca'!

In following a personal principle when it comes to music for dancing, you don't have to play the exact same songs for dancers. Even if dancers like a particular song, we can always find alternatives with similar or identical sounds. This may well keep dancers happy and at the same time, it improves the salsa 'vocabulary' of dancers. Win-win, don't you think?

Of course, there are also a small minority of dancers who strongly feel that Marc Anthony is the only authority on Salsa music... but I digress.

About roughly 10 years back, up to today (in a limited context), Columbian boogaloo was pretty popular in the local Salsa scene, in particular Colombian giants, Sonora Carruseles. Hits like 'Ave Maria Lola' are still being played in clubs today. Colombian boogaloo had catchy, energetic and simple grooves, which meant beginner dancers found it easy to dance to and advance dancers could have a lot of fun with the songs.

If like Sonora Carruseles, you might enjoy the sounds of Conjunto Jaguey, another Columbian orquesta. Bloody hell, apparently they even have the trumpets from Los Hermanos Lebron playing for them. My take? Classic Columbian boogaloo, soft to moderate beats (easy on the ears) danced to a nice pace. Not too zealous and a great song to relax the energy but not to totally slow it down to a crawl. Warm-down music even. Also I'm a sucker for trumpets - I feel it adds character to some music.

Conjunto Jaguey - Maruca

I'll see you guys on the dance floor real soon!

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Edwin y La Fusion Mambo - Novelera

Welcome to the Second Day of Dom's Seven Days of Salsa!

A couple of years ago, I was dancing in Salsa Havana at the Federal Hotel. It was late on a Saturday night and the crowd was slowly winding down. I noticed a Swiss gentleman dancing with a friend of mine, right in front of the bar (if you've ever been there, you know there is a thin strip of floor between the bar and the furniture). What transpires next has inspired me for years after that...

I don't remember the song but I do remember being fixated with that dude's dancing. He had an awesome amount of musicality - hitting every break and grooving every rhythm. Mind you that was during the earlier years of my Salsa but I was so inspired! I never forgot that and I've been working towards that ever since.

Related to this sharing exercise is the fact that my brand of music may not always ring well with the Masses, or the Common Crowd. I tend to look out for amazing grooves in my music, which of course in turn inspires a more dynamic, free-style kind of Salsa dancing. One example is La Fusion Mambo's 'Novelera'. Have a listen by clicking on the link provided below and tell me what you think about it.

Edwin y La Fusion Mambo - Novelera

Its totally easy to mistaken a set of memorized and rehearsed steps as pure groove, but imagine having no idea of what to do on the dance floor, and then letting the music move your body. Pure bliss.

I'll see you guys on the floor soon!

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Sever Combo - Mashkara

I'm back after some lay-off! A ridiculously busy schedule, including a superb performance in the Penang Salsa Festival 2015 as well as teaching a host of amazing and awesome Salsa and Rueda classes mean that my amateur DJ career is not the smoothest, but that's how things are. There's a time and place for everything, right?

Today's Song of the Day is by a Russian band, Sever Combo, which apparently roughly translates as 'Northern Combo'. The title of the song is 'Mashkara'. Click on the link below and have a listen and tell me what you think about it:-

Sever Combo - Mashkara

Because many of the songs are in Russian, for a non-Russian speaking dude, its really tough to find their songs but I've found a way (as only the madness of Dom can). Still, good luck in finding more of their songs.

This group packs a full band with trumpets, saxophones and the works. The style of their music, at first listen, doesn't sound entirely Latin, but that's a good thing. They managed to incorporate a local sound and marry it with Salsa, making Sever Combo one hell of a band if you're looking for different sounds to groove to.

Any friends in Russia? I'd like to find out more about these guys!

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Orquesta Sonido 70 - No Te Puedo Perdonar

Good to be back in Salsa music. I've been busy lately with the new apartment and many exciting developments in work. But I'll always come back to the music.

Today's awesome band is known as Orquesta Sonido 70 with their aforementioned song.

Once again, another awesome band, but I can't seem to find much information on these guys. I think they're Columbian and by the sounds of it, the play a sort of retro style club Salsa Dura reminiscent of the 70's. The tune is moved forward by strong vocals and back-up choir, supported by simple trumpet riffs and a surprising short and sweet piano solo past half-way through. What I honestly didn't expect was the guitar solo! Seemed a little out of place to me but they didn't drag it out. Listening to the drive of the electric guitar, I'm sure their style is definitely retro!

Have a listen to the YouTube link below:

Orquesta Sonido 70 - No Te Puedo Perdonar


What do you guys think of this? Will you dance to it in the clubs?




Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Grupo Salson - Teresa

Music is a funny thing, in a sense that it calls out to different people in so many different ways, and that too largely depending on your emotions. You could experience the SAME thing more than once, but the experiences could differ depending on how your day went.

I'm saying this because this song by awesome dura band, Grupo Salson, titled 'Teresa' makes me feel exactly this way. There are days when I feel this upbeat song is exciting and well-paced. Other days (usually my slow-ass days) I feel the song is too busy and draggy. I won't go so far as to say I'm divided though since I genuinely like this song, but I admit it may not be for over-listening.

I don't know anything about these dude, except for a couple of songs I got from them, so I won't pretend. But one thing for sure, these guys are a modern dura band with 'oomph'. I would love to listen to them live - this song particularly.

Have a listen to a YouTube post with their song 'Teresa':-

Grupo Salson - Teresa

So how does this song make YOU feel? Would you dance to this?

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Lucky 7 Mambo - Nabori

It's been a couple of weeks since my last post sharing salsa music which I love so much.

Since the last post, I encountered a trying situation recently. I am aware not everyone is ready to accept new music. In fact, the music introduced to the Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, market may not even be new in the Worldwide Salsa Community, but people may still be resistant to it. However, when comments move from constructive criticism to uninformed, drunken rants, the question is raised - are we as a local community ready to step outside our comfort zone in order to develop and grow? 

I don't really have a fixed opinion on this. It kinda differs from situation to situation. Not many are interested in the music they dance to, only that they find it danceable. While this is a given, I personally feel that the act of dance cannot be separated from music - hence my love for Salsa music. After all, we don't (often) dance to the music in our heads - but to the groovy sounds flowing from speakers in Salsa Clubs.

Is this good food for thought? Or do the overly-sensitive souls find my honesty offensive? Once again, it depends on one's character.

Today's band sounds very much like the popular Grupo Latin Vibe. While it is not my intention to give you guys similar sounding music all the time, it is also a good idea to explore other bands which share similar sounds to popular groups. Today's band is called Lucky 7 Mambo and they are here to rock your world!

Lucky 7 Mambo consists of Craig Fundyga (Vibraphone), the well-known George Balmaseda (Sonero), Joey De Leon Jr (Percussions), the superb Rene Camacho (Bass), Kevin Richard (Percussions) and Joe Rotundi (Piano), Angel Rodriguez (Percussions). 

In short Luck 7 is Salsa Old School! Heavily influenced by music from the 50's and the 60's, their inspiration comes from legends such as the late Jimmy Sabater, the late Cheo Feliciano and the late Joe Cuba. You don't get any more old school than this line up.

The highlighted song of the day is 'Nabori' from their album 'The Basement Trax' in 2009. You can get a listen by clicking on the YouTube link located conveniently below:
Lucky 7 Mambo - Nabori

So what do you think of this? Do ya like the smooth sounds of Lucky 7? Lemme know!

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Bio Ritmo - Asia Minor

Are you a fan of the sounds of 'Nuyorican' salsa? Not much for me to say about the amazing Bio Ritmo. A quick search online has yielded the following information about these dudes:

The Bio Rhythm "Salsa Machine" is a salsa band based in Richmon, Virginia formed in 1991. The name Bio Ritmo is Spanglish word play on the term Biorhythm, the hypothetical description for the rhythm of life.

The eight to ten member ensemble is known for a classic Nuyorican salsa sound made famous by the Fania All Stars in the 1970s that combines African Caribbean rhythms from son, bomba, plena, and samba with electronica and big band brass.

Founded in the early 1990s, they started out as a part of the Virginia college band scene that included other, then indie, acts like Dave Matthews Band and Fighting Gravity.

In November 2004, the Salsa Machine won the Disc Makers Independent Music World Series (IMWS) Northeast finals held at The Lion's Den in New York City and earned the title of "Top Independent Act in the Northeast." They were finalists in the 2004 Independent Music Awards – Latin Category.

Following their critically acclaimed 2003 self-titled release, Bio Ritmo released its EP, Salsa System, produced by legendary engineer/producer and 18-time Grammy Awardwinner, Jon Fausty. In September 2008, Bio Ritmo released their LP "Bionico", recorded by Lance Koehler and mixed and mastered by Jon Fausty.

In September 2011, Bio Ritmo released their latest LP, "La Verdad" on CD and Vinyl, celebrating 20 years of original salsa music.

One of the songs I'm totally listening to right now is 'Asia Minor' - strange name, I thought it refers to the key of the song (I'm not far off that theory). Have a listen by clicking on the YouTube link below:

Bio Ritmo - Asia Minor

As some of you might know, I'm a total sucker for big band, kinda Salsa Dura - and Bio Ritmo does not disappoint! They've got smooth licks and cool transitions in this song, at least. This is definitely one for the groovy dancers.

So what do you think? Would you dance to this? Do let me know!

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

La Sonora Libre - Pin Pum Pim Pam

It's been a while. The holiday season totally took a toll on me. I'm just starting to get back on my feet. This includes my little career as a Salsa DJ and lifelong music aficionado.

The 'Welcome Back' song I'm highlighting today is by La Sonora Libre. These guys are a Salsa Dura and Latin Jazz orchestra based in Barcelona, Spain. We’re going all over the world in our search for awesome Salsa music!

If the All-Knowing Internet speaks the truth, this orchestra is currently composed of ten very talented musicians who hail from awesome Salsa-filled countries such as Columbia, Venezuela and Ecuador. I think Argentina and Italy are in there somewhere. This band brings with it a fresh sound solidly infused with Latin jazz, Afro-Latin, Samba and World Music. You will find it tough to sit still with their catchy beats.

Additional useless information – the name ‘La Sonora Libre’ by definition indicates Freedom of Music and Expression. They don’t believe in restricting themselves to a formula or structure. Such is the culture. The Sonora is FREE because it expresses itself, says what it thinks, lives and sings about everyday things and what happens, from a sincere, critical, constructive, supportive and positive perspective. 

In June 2011, La Sonora Libre was awarded a sponsorship by the Ministry of Culture of Ecuador that helped them to begin recording their first album. In November of the same year, they began recording in the studio and produced 8 songs that unite Salsa Dura, Latin Jazz, identity and consciousness with great quality music and a strong urban sounds. The band’s debut album has been well received by the public as well as acclaimed by critics. 

Have a listen to one of their awesome songs, by cliking on the YouTube link provided below. The song is oddly titled ‘Pin Pum Pim Pam’:-

La Sonora Libre - Pin Pum Pim Pam

This is song is super energetic with an exciting feel to it. Typical modern Dura, the entire orchestra is utilized to good effect with strong trumpets and the piano tumbao reverberating throughout the song. The backup singers are pretty damn pleasurable as well.

What do you think? Would you like to dance to music like this in your regular clubs?

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Jairo Ganan y Bata-Klan - El Senor De La Melodia

Happy New Year to anyone and everyone who is reading these simple posts of mine! That's it. I'm not the best at giving well wishes.

I've been really busy over the last 2 weeks, what with Christmas and the New Year celebrations taking place at the same day! Once that was done, I got really lazy for the past few days, which brings me to NOW.

If you weren't aware or didn't attend, I played a massive set together with the popular DJ Selva at the pre-New Years party organized by DJ Sam of Havana KL. I must admit the energy of the crowd that night was really addictive. I might get hooked on the Salsa DJ thing...

Over the course of my continuous research, I've come across many different types of Salsa songs, all with their unique feel and groove. It's not uncommon to find songs by seemingly obscure bands/singers but later on you realize that these guys are big from where they come from - just not (yet) in isolated Malaysia. Jairo Ganan is one such person for me. A quick check on the Almighty Internet yielded nothing much but a Facebook post entitled 'Salsa Stories' brought with it this caption (verbatim):-

"The singer caleno Jairo Ganan recorded this song in 2012. The flavor and the interpretive determination define the sense proposed in each line. The Peruvian pianist Alfredito Linares' arrangement retains the intention of the "hard" salsa for the dancer. Jairo Ganan identifies in its soneos the presence of new places and diffusing the salsa in the city of Cali. The outstanding percussionist Freddy Colorado and the trumpet player Luis Bravo, among others, participate in this recording."

For sure I'll be following this dude's music from now on. Have a listen by clicking on the YouTube link below:-

Jairo Ganan y Bata-Klan - El Senor De La Melodia

If you're wondering, I find this song medium energy to dance to, fairly straightforward and not many surprises in the riffs or breaks. I think it kinda sounds similar to the sounds of La Maxima 79, only with a dash more sabor and a few tablespoons on dura. Purely my opinion though. I think this song will be popular with KL dancers. They probably won't know what it is, but they'll enjoy dancing to it, from the relaxed, casual dancer, to the hardcore-heels-on-fire floor burners. I played this during my Friday set a few days before the pre-New years party and I heard it again by DJ Gary last Saturday.

Jairo Ganan should be staple in our dancing scene! Lemme know what you think of this song. Is it in compliance with your groove?



Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Dave Santiago & Latin Affair - La Peluca

Hard questions? Along with hard answers, we need em to develop smart Salsa dancers, and not robots who have no idea what they dance to - blindly executing turn patterns. 

Hard question of the day: Can we KL Salsa dancers enjoy our dancing night with the absence of 'Ting-Tong' music? 

What's this then? Some old-timers in the local Salsa scene understand this tongue-in-cheek term which refers to excessively jazzy Salsa numbers, usually punctuated by a strong piano and/or marimba melody. These strong melodies sometimes overpower the regular Salsa percussion instruments, making the tunes in essence, jazz pieces. 

Some dancers love it for the groove it brings. Some dancers dislike it because they can't grasp the abstract jazzy timing of the song. But love it or hate it, quite a few jazzy Salsa groups have become mainstay in our social nights, making it 'safe' music selection. Take for example, the New Swing Sextet and Grupo Latin Vibe, both awesome Salsa bands in their own right. If you don't know what Salsa song to play for your dancing crowd for the next 10 minutes or so, you really can't go wrong with overplayed evergreens such as 'La Llave' or 'My Favorite Things'. 

Because the KL scene is relatively comfortable with the 'Ting-Tong' Salsa songs, can we really survive, so to speak, without it? 

Let me introduce Dave Santiago and the Latin Affair with one of their songs 'La Peluca'. You can hear it in the YouTube link below:-

Dave Santiago & Latin Affair - La Peluca

As far as music goes, I generally find Dave Santiago smooth as silk. Check out 'Chibola'. This is slightly less smooth with a strong pachanga feel (flauta included!). But towards the end, there is this lovely double-bass solo followed by the outtro with the rest of the instruments. Nicely done Dave. 

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

New Swing Sextet - Revolucionando

As much as I love discovering new sounds of Salsa, and sharing it with the discerning public, I also love to remind Salseros that their favorite or familiar artiste would probably have more hidden gems, other than that one particular song you hear week in, week out.

The New Swing Sextet is like the legendary phoenix (did I get the bird right?). Legends in their own right in the Swingin' Sixties, their last studio album was in 1970. As the saying goes, Legend don't die, they just fade away. Like the Legends they are, they didn't die, but instead took a 30-year hiatus! They reformed somewhere in mid-2000 and in 2008, reborn fresh from the ashes, they released their comeback album, "Back on the Streets" which was Grammy nominated. They have since released another album in 2013.

New Swing Sextet are heavy proponents of Latin Jazz, with their 'Mary Poppins' cover of 'My Favorite Things' a crowd favorite in the KL dance scene. Many dancers, know this song by heart but may not be aware of the many other awesome fare that New Swing produces. This is another superb piece by them, entitled 'Revolucionando'. Click on the YouTube link below to check out the song:

New Swing Sextet - Revolucionando

Good right? You'll love it if you like dancing to Latin Jazz Salsa, and even if you don't, it's still an awesome dancing song! I had the pleasure of dancing to the sounds of the New Swing Sextet live in Singapore a couple of years back in the popular Singapore International Salsa Festival, a happy memory that will keep with me for a long time!

Do let me know what you think about it. I'd like to hear your views and comments on song like this.

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable wit the views stated above, you can bugger-off. The rights are reserved for the written article only, and I obviously don't own the song nor do I own YouTube, so don't be a dumb-ass. This article may be reproduced with permission from the author. If you intend to reproduce this article for the purpose of general mayhem, video proof is required for entertainment and administrative purposes. Unauthorized reproduction or usage of this article may result in prostitution to the full extent allowed by Malaysian law. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Willie Rosario - Callejera

I admit. I do like my 'new' Salsa music, which includes 'alternative' gems such as Timba. For a hardcore dancer such as myself who dances different styles of Salsa with reasonable proficiency, different sounds allow me to do so much, and then some, during a dance. One can only develop musicality to a higher level by dancing to different sounds, not mechanical dancing to songs you're familiar with. 

My personal definition of musicality (non definite of course) - When you allow the music to move you, instead of the other way! This is not true with everyone of course. To quite a few, musicality is repetition. To each his or her own though, as there is no fixed formula, no 'right' or 'wrong'.

After an entire Sunday of Rueda Flashmobbing all round Kuala Lumpur to the groovy sounds of Timba and Cuban music, I spent the entire Marvelous Monday morning listening to old-skool Mambo, in particular a personal favorite, Willie Rosario. 

I think in the KL scene Maestro Willie Rosario is terribly underrated. How do I start by telling you about this man? With a career spanning more than 50 years (almost double the lifespan of some of you) which includes a host of award and recognition, including a Grammy Award and a place in the coveted Latin Music Hall Of Fame, he's got more albums than I have girlfriends. Let the internet reveal his secrets! Speak O' wise Wikipedia!

Discography:

• El Bravo Soy Yo! (1963)
• Fabuloso y Fantástico (1966)
• Latin Jazz a Go-Go-Go (1967)
• Two Too Much (1967)
• Haida Huo (1968)
• Boogaloo y Guaguancó (1968)
• El Bravo de Siempre (1969)
• De Donde Nace el Ritmo (1970)
• Más Ritmo (1972)
• Infinito (1973)
• Otra Vez (1975)
• Gracias Mundo (1977)
• From The Depth of My Brain (1978)
• El Rey del Ritmo! (1979)
• El de a 20 de Willie (1980)
• The Portrait of a Salsa Man (1981)
• Atízame el Fogón (1982)
• The Salsa Machine (1983)
• Nuevos Horizontes (1984)
• Afincando (1985)
• Nueva Cosecha (1986)
• A Man of Music (1987)
• The Salsa Legend (1988)
• Unique (1989)
• Viva Rosario! (1990)
• The Roaring Fifties (1991)
• Tradición Clásica (1993)
• ¡Sorpresas! (1995)
• Back To The Future (1999)
• La Banda Que Deleita (2006)

Holy crap.

You understand that choosing a song to showcase Senor Willie is no simple task. I love many of his life's work, but I'll do what must be done. 'Callejera', I choose you! Click on the YouTube link below to check out this song!

Willie Rosario - Callejera

If you folks have been following my humble postings, it might interest you to know that this considered as Salsa Dura, owing to the classic big-band nature of the song. No matter what you call it - this is old-skool Mambo at its best, guaranteed to get you on that floor and shaking that booty, regardless of how unpleasant a sight it might be.

Do you like old-skool? What are your opinions in the nu-skool/old skool debate? Would you shake it to Willie Rosario?

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable with the above views, well, you can bugger-off. All rights are reserved for the the articles itself. I obviously don't own the songs and I don't own YouTube, you dumb-ass. This article may only be reproduced with permission from the author. In the event of reproduction for general mayhem, permission is not required - only video proof. Any other forms of reproduction should be prevented with protection. Jesus protects but use condoms please. Any unauthorized usage of the article contained therein is expressly prohibited and violators will be prostituted with broom-handle sodomy and force-feeding of garlic-sausage buns. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Barrio Latino - Nadie Te Da Na

Barrio Latino, Hungary's first ever Timba band, or 'orquesta' was formed in 2008 by a group of Jazz musicians. They're the most awesome example of the saying, that being good at what you do is the best kind publicity.

Barrio Latino apparently has been inactive for years but somehow their music got to the ear of some hot shot producer - who the Internet tells me is NOT a producer but a Grammy Award winning sound engineer - Michael Lazarus, who is also the owner of the music label, Latin Pulse Music. Thanks to the wonders of the Internet Michael Lazarus and Barrio Latino's founding member Tamas Bodzsar, collaborated for the release of Barrio Latino's debut under Michael's lable, Latin Pulse Music.

Have a listen to one of their songs, by clicking on the YouTube link below:-

Barrio Latino - Nadie Te Da Na

These guys are classic Timba, with strong pianos and trumpets and a rich, soulful voiced sonero. But, they may not appeal to a safer crowd as Timba tends to get on the soul & jazz train and shoot off into the sunset. Dancers who are groove oriented and who heavily style (girls or guys mind you!) would probably like songs such as this, as it gives them plenty of opportunity to do what they love best!

I know what you're thinking - why do I keep introducing groovy music? Is it true local dancers don't take too well to songs like this? Will we ever reach the level of social musicality to appreciate Timba, Boogaloo and other awesome Salsa songs? Time will tell, and meanwhile, I'll keep on playing, researching and sharing love.

What do you think? Would you dance to Timba on the dance floor? Is one Timba a night too many for you? Lemme know! 



Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable with the above views, well, you can bugger-off. All rights are reserved for the the articles itself. I obviously don't own the songs and I don't own YouTube, you dumb-ass. This article may only be reproduced with permission from the author. In the event of reproduction for general mayhem, permission is not required - only video proof. Any other forms of reproduction should be prevented with protection. Jesus protects but use condoms please. Any unauthorized usage of the article contained therein is expressly prohibited and violators will be prostituted with broom-handle sodomy and force-feeding of garlic-sausage buns. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Grupo Salsafon - Te Cantare

I don't know how to introduce these guys - Grupo Salsafon consists of 11 members of pure Dura awesomeness, and this goes beyond mere words. All I know is that these guys have been making waves for the past 10 years and in 2011 and 2012 they turned some serious heads at Tempo Latina, one of the major Latin music festivals in Europe. Their music is closely linked and heavily influenced by Latin big-band music from the 70s (some of you know this as 'Salsa' music).

Have a listen to their song 'Te Cantare' from their 2011 album 'Tribute to the Barrio' by clicking on the YouTube link below:-

Grupo Salsafon - Te Cantare

For those of you who know me, I'm a sucker for awesome trumpets and smooth vocals. Their singers Hugo Quispe and Rafel Quintero are pure honey in terms of melody. They've got amazing catchy tunes too! I don't consider these guys 'heavy' in terms of Salsa Dura. They actually sound kinda commercial, similar to Spanish Harlem Orchestra which makes these guys pretty friendly in Salsa socials. 

In fact, I'll be playing one of their songs this Friday Salsa Social at the Paradox Art Cafe. You might not want to miss this one!


Do you enjoy the sounds of Grupo Salsafon? Are you interested in hearing more of them? Lemme know!

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable with the above views, well, you can bugger-off. All rights are reserved for the the articles itself. I obviously don't own the songs and I don't own YouTube, you dumb-ass. This article may only be reproduced with permission from the author. In the event of reproduction for general mayhem, permission is not required - only video proof. Any other forms of reproduction should be prevented with protection. Jesus protects but use condoms please. Any unauthorized usage of the article contained therein is expressly prohibited and violators will be prostituted with broom-handle sodomy and force-feeding of garlic-sausage buns. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable with the above views, well, you can bugger-off. All rights are reserved for the the articles itself. I obviously don't own the songs and I don't own YouTube, you dumb-ass. This article may only be reproduced with permission from the author. In the event of reproduction for general mayhem, permission is not required - only video proof. Any other forms of reproduction should be prevented with protection. Jesus protects but use condoms please. Any unauthorized usage of the article contained therein is expressly prohibited and violators will be prostituted with broom-handle sodomy and force-feeding of garlic-sausage buns. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Conga Libre - A Quien Esperas

What constitutes 'heavy' music? Last weekend, I experimented with some heavy Salsa Dura in our popular Saturday Social at Bernard's. Reception was mixed - clearly some were not comfortable with it, whilst some came up to me commending the energy the songs brought.

My personal analysis of the Clash of Genre is that like contemporary Pop music, Salsa too has its own brand of Pop. Many associate this Salsa 'Pop' with Salsa Romantica. Inspired by the Latin Pop scene in the late-80s to 90s, Salsa Romantica gained popularity due to its smooth ballads and the personalities performing. It's still popular today. However, even among the 'regular' (if such a term can be used) Salsa music there is music which is light-hearted, ever-so tropical, with clear-beats, and rings of traditional Latin percussions. 

Then there is the Dark Side of the Force. Salsa music which is deeply ingrained with and influenced by their cultural origins - for example, among others, Afro-Cuban, Afro-Carribean, Columbian, Puerto Rican and the evergreen Cuban. These music forms are generally perceived as 'not regular' and may be difficult to comprehend musically by some.

The song for the day is Cuban Timba by a lovely band, Orquesta Conga Libre with their song 'A Quien Esperas' from their 2014 album 'Somos Todos'. Here's the YouTube link!

Conga Libre - A Quien Esperas

I find this song to be in similar style to a popular Swedish Timba band by the name of 'Calle Real' in a sense that it is melody and vocal oriented. He kinda even sounds a little like Thomas Eby (coincidentally Conga Libre does have a collaboration with Thomas Eby for another song). I like it and Casino dancers will appreciate the smooth tune.

For those unfamiliar with Cuban Timba, someone once told me that Timba is like a rock band, playing Salsa music - traditional and contemporary beats and grooves. Match made in heaven for me then!

Do you like Timba? Do you like THIS kind of Timba? Would you want to try dancing to it one of these day? Lemme know!

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable with the above views, well, you can bugger-off. All rights are reserved for the the articles itself. I obviously don't own the songs and I don't own YouTube, you dumb-ass. This article may only be reproduced with permission from the author. In the event of reproduction for general mayhem, permission is not required - only video proof. Any other forms of reproduction should be prevented with protection. Jesus protects but use condoms please. Any unauthorized usage of the article contained therein is expressly prohibited and violators will be prostituted with broom-handle sodomy and force-feeding of garlic-sausage buns. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.

Grupo Latin Vibe - Por Tu Amor

There are times as a dancer you may not be feeling those really energetic, party Salsa songs. Instead, you may want something smoother and more relaxed. 

Introducing Grupo Latin Vibe, an awesome Latin Jazz group from New York. They possess an incredibly groovy signature sound, produced by the traditional marimba (it’s like a xylophone for Salsa music). Thanks to Kai Fan for helping me identify the instrument! It is so distinct in their music, you know who you’re listening to right away! If you’re curious what a marimba looks like, here’s a picture:

Yes. It’s a xylophone. I’m no expert but if you do love your Salsa music, I believe some understanding of the instruments used would enhance and add value to your listening experience.

“Por Tu Amor” is a track from their most recent (recent is a relative word – it’s in 2007) album, ‘Amanecer’. They’re pretty consistent music-wise from their 2003 album ‘Mambo City’ to their 2005 album ‘All That Vibe’ to the most recent one. “Por Tu Amor” is no different. It’s groovy and smooth with a lovely harmony between the melody played by the marimba and the percussion base. Here is a YouTube link to “Por Tu Amor”:

Grupo Latin Vibe - Por Tu Amor

For dancers, this song is lovely and slow. Don’t underestimate slow songs, as it allows you to really bring on those complicated turn patterns in a suave and cool manner (instead of clumsy spasms as you try to execute the same during those lightning fast songs). Also, you have plenty of opportunity to hit those groovy breaks, which are evenly spaced and not overbearing. BONUS: There is an awesome marimba extended solo which kinda builds up from 3:30 in the song and hits off at about 4:00. The only set-back here is that the song runs for about 6.5 minutes. It’s a little long by salsa social standards in KL and much of South East Asia (elsewhere besides South East Asia? I don’t know).

Your dancing is only as good as your understanding of the music you are grooving to. Hence a basic understanding of the music is important for the development of your dance. Slow groovy songs bring with it a certain feel and deserves respect. So for those of you who only know how to dance to fast music, you might wanna review your dancing and up your level. Flapping about like retarded penguins to ridiculously speeds may not be the best for your dance, in my opinion. But hey, what do I know?

Do you like this song? Do you like Grupo Latin Vibe? Do you want to dance to their music? Lemme know!

Disclaimer: The views published in the above article are the author's and the author's alone. If readers are not agreeable with the above views, well, you can bugger-off. All rights are reserved for the the articles itself. I obviously don't own the songs and I don't own YouTube, you dumb-ass. This article may only be reproduced with permission from the author. In the event of reproduction for general mayhem, permission is not required - only video proof. Any other forms of reproduction should be prevented with protection. Jesus protects but use condoms please. Any unauthorized usage of the article contained therein is expressly prohibited and violators will be prostituted with broom-handle sodomy and force-feeding of garlic-sausage buns. Thank you for reading this disclaimer.