Recorded live on Aug. 24, 1973 at Yankee Stadium, Fania All Stars’ Latin-Soul-Rock is a treat from start to finish. The all-too-brief recording, long out of print, returns on 180-gram vinyl to celebrate the original release’s 50th anniversary.
Remastered by Kevin Gray, the large and impressive all-star group is on fire from the opening track “Viva Tirado” until the album’s final song, the percussion workout “Congo Bongo.” While the recording includes just eight songs from the concert, what we hear is epic. Guest musician Billy Cobham handled the drumming for the concerts, and musical director and percussionist Johnny Paado led the five other core all-stars through a riveting workout.
Additionally, Vaya Records guest stars such as Bobby Cruz and Ismael Quintana contributed vocals, while invited All-Stars like guitarist Jorge “Malo” Santana (“Chanchullo”) and saxophonist Manu Dibango (“Viva Tirado”) made significant contributions. “Viva Tirado” and “Mama Guiela” also feature Hammond B-3 work by guest keyboard whiz Jan Hammer.
Latin-Soul-Rock is also available on 192/24 hi-res digital audio. If you are one of 300 lucky souls, you can get a deluxe “fuego” vinyl-colored limited edition vinyl copy, too.
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