Carlos Gonzalez

The most jazz-oriented of the elderly musicians in the Buena Vista Social Club, pianist Ruben Gonzalez was 77 at the time of this CD, his debut as a leader. Although he did not even own his own piano at the time, he plays brilliantly, performing a variety of traditional melodies plus two originals, often quoting other songs and really stretching himself. His chord voicings are distinctive and very inviting, his control of the piano is quite impressive, and the music sings its heart out. The CD was recorded spontaneously over a two-day period with Gonzalez mostly being the lead voice, assisted by trumpeter Manuel Mirabal (who has some fine solos), bassist Orlando "Cachaito" Lopez, several percussionists, and occasionally three background singers. This set is impossible not to love.

"People who know me already know that my poetry is deeply linked to signature music and Orbe could not be different. This book is accompanied by a studio recorded album with 9 songs written by me and composed by Gema Hernandez, Titxu Velez, Fito Mansilla, Dácil Santana, Carlos Suárez, Georgina, Fran Fernández, Judit Neddermann and Vicky Gastelo."