2024 Reïssue on Concord/Craft !
One of the band`s most notorious albums was the final collaboration between Olivencia and the great improvisational singer Chamaco Ramírez; Ramírez makes one wonder what kind of possibilities would have been available for the underrated singer had he not faced an untimely death. Ramírez was one of the singers directly influenced by Ismael Rivera`s style, and he demonstrates that in an undaunted fashion in the second version of his self-penned "Trucutú."." Plante Bandera," "Casimira," "A la Yumbae," "Si Estás Herido" (all among C. Curet Alonso`s most celebrated tunes), and the remarkable "Evelio y la Rumba" have zest to spare, offering ample room for Ramírez`s unflappable witticisms. The band is solid as usual, and talented arranger/musical director Luis "Perico" Ortiz brings his consummate professionalism to this ageless piece.