"¡Ay Caramba!," (Cumbancha) 

Ska Cubano mixes traditional Jamaican ska and big-band Cuban music to fine effect, delivering a 14-cut album that will please both camps. Vocalist Beny Billy insists he's the reincarnation of the fabulous Cuban singer Beny More, and there's plenty of evidence in his inspired, powerhouse singing to back his claim. The songs bounce between traditional numbers and originals, all with perfect horn charts and deep grooves. "Ay Caramba!" (in stores Tuesday) is adventurous, more than a little nutty and a whole lot of fun. The band performs Saturday at downtown's California Plaza.

- Glenn Whipp
LOS ANGELES DAILY NEWS