Homenaje al Grupo Niche
Los Grandes de la Salsa
(Codiscos)

CD Reviewed by

When we speak of musical institutions, every country has one (or more than one). Cuba has Orquesta Aragón, Puerto Rico has El Gran Combo and Colombia has Grupo Niche.

Formed in the early 80's, this band has carved some of the most aggressive swinging salsa from South America and now a group of salseros from Puerto Rico, Venezuela and Colombia, pay homage to this deserving band on the eve of their 20th Anniversary.

"El Niño de Trastalleres" Andy Montañez, begins this swinging tribute with "¿Cómo podré disimular?". I have no idea how old Mr. Montañez is, but just like Patti Labelle, his voice gets stronger with age. This man is singing as if his life depended on it. ("Youngins" should take note!)

Next up is a very talented and underrated sonero, Luisito Carrión of Sonora Ponceña and Bobby Valentín fame. He tackles the controversial "La negra no quiere" a song about a man who hits his woman with practically every kind of stick he can find (I always wondered how women felt about this song). But, in a positive move, Carrión's soneos differ from the subject matter, giving it more of a comedic edge and allowing you to enjoy the song without guilt.

The CD also includes smoking songs with David Pabón, Mariano Cívico and Luis Castro of Venezuela. Colombia's own Charlie Cardona (ex member of Niche) and Grupo Galé make an appearance. (The CD was produced by Diego Galé)

This project will pique the curiosity of Niche's music for a newer generation, and righteously so. Let's dance!

Songs:

1- ¿Cómo podré disimular? - Andy Montañez
2- La negra no quiere - Luisito Carrion
3- La magia de tus besos - Charlie Cardona
4- Ana Mile - Mariano Cívico
5- Sin sentimiento - Grupo Galé
6- Nuestro sueño - David Pabón
7- Una Aventura - Andy Montañez
8- Del puente pa' allá - Luisito Carrión
9- Sólo un cariño - Charlie Cardona
10- Mi pueblo natal - Luis Castro
11- Tapando el hueco - Grupo Galé
12- Miserable - David Pabón

 

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This page was last updated on 27-Mar-2002