Part of a four part series of double CDs devoted to the classic era in Cuban music, this edition focuses on the sonero (literally singer of ‘son’ which incorporates improvising on a theme) tradition and is as comprehensive a selection from the period covered, 1939-1957, as one could wish with remastering and sound quality near flawless considering the age of the recordings. Key labels such as the legendary Panart company of Havana have been judiciously selected and some of Cuba’s seminal singers, groups and instrumentalists are on display. Arguably the greatest male sonero was Benny More and we have no less than five songs to showcase his talents, with ‘Rumberos de ayer’ typifying his prowess. Cheo Marquetti is less well known outside the island, but vastly gifted and sings the praises of the musical craft on the aptly titled ‘Sonero’ while the evergreen ‘Oriente’ is given an near-definitive rendition. Of the female vocalists, Celia Cruz before prolonged exile in Mexico a and the United States was lead vocalist with Sonora Matancera and is showcased while Celina Gonzalez continues to perform in Cuba well into her seventies. Here her classic ‘Yo soy el punto cubano’ is performed with husband Reutilo. Instrumentalists are not forgotten on this compilation and the flute tradition is rooted in the son. One of its principal exponents is Fajardo and the tasty ‘Vamos a gozar’ sounds just as fresh as if it had been recorded yesterday. Pianist Alfredito Valdez and master trumpeter Felix Chappotin contibute with pieces also. This is a beautifully illustrated as well as selected compilation with extensive sleeve notes (English and French) and original album covers and artist photos that give a true flavour of the era. If the following releases are up to this standard, there are many musical treats yet to await us. Indispensable.
