|
|
 |
CD Review
|
| Click Here to go back. |
Global Rhythm, CD Review >>
Based in the unlikely Richmond, Virginia, Bio Ritmo draws
from the Puerto Rican roots of lead singer/composer Rei
Alvarez. Alvarez sees Ritmo's mission as counter to the
saccharine fatigue of salsa romantica; favoring the music's
roots as popular commentary on social themes and concerns of
everyday life. A tight, cooking nine-piece ensemble, the
band lays claim to the brassy Latin dance sound of the '70s,
mixing classic elements of son, guaracha, rumba and bomba
with an unexpected dash of Brazilian samba, R&B, electronica
and miscellaneous audio effects. Performing exclusively
their own material, Bio Ritmo represent the sentiments of a
younger dance crowd searching beyond the jejune prescription
and superficial flash of international Latin pop. While not
cultivating the overt political edge of progressive icons
like Ruben Blades and Willie Colon, Bio Ritmo share their
energy, perpetuating the legacy of straight-ahead dance
maestros Tito Puente and Machito, whose percussion and brass
artistry will never go out of style. MICHAEL STONE 06/01/04
|
| Click Here to go back. |
|
 |
|
|
|
