Tesoros Musicales Review

07/13/2005 5:58 AM, AMG


Celia Cruz and bandleader Sonora Matancera came together in 1950 and become one of Cuba's biggest attractions. Alongside singer Beny Moré, Cruz dominated the postwar world of Havana's nightclubs while establishing an ever-growing international profile. Unfortunately, in the wake of Castro's takeover, Cruz and husband Pedro Knight (a trumpeter in Matancera's band) left for the United States. Luckily for fans of classic mambo vocals of the '50s and early '60s, Cruz and Matancera cut a wealth of material up until they parted ways in 1965. This 20-track collection from Sony focuses on material the two stars cut toward the end of their collaboration. In addition to popular sides like "Tu Voz" and "Guantanamera," the album features lesser-known highlights, like the proto-salsa cuts "Pulpa da Tamarindo" and "La Interasada." It's a disc that sparkles with excellent arrangements, some tasty duets, and Cruz's Latin siren-song topping it all off. For yet another of many available releases chronicling Cruz and Matancera's awesome partnership, this is just business as usual. ~ Stephen Cook, All Music Guide