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CD Review/ Ruben Gonzalez
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Christian Science Monitor, CD Review/ Ruben Gonzalez >>
The late Cuban pianist Ruben Gonzalez is considered by some to be one of the top three Cuban son pianists. When he wasn't at the piano, he seemed fey and slightly impish, like he was hiding a delicious secret or two. But once behind the piano, his fingers took flight over the keys coloring and innovating whatever song he was currently performing. His musical intuition knew exactly when to fade into the background of the music and let the other musicians shine or when it was his turn to fully exhibit his rich talent. In the documentary Buena Vista Social Club, the pianist appeared to have little or no ego, he even seemed shy in relating his childhood to the camera. However, after he walked onto the stage and sat behind the piano, he proved why audiences love him in Amsterdam, New York City and elsewhere.
Ruben was born in the early part of the century and he began taking piano instruction at an early age. Although he mentioned that others noticed his talent, he almost seemed bewildered by the bandleader Arsenio Rodriguez asking him to join his band, since the Arsenio's pianist had left Cuba. This was in the 1940's. After World War II, Ruben left Cuba and performed and at radio stations and nightclubs in Panama, Columbia, Venezuela, Argentina and Brazil. He settled in Venezuela until the early 1960's when he returned to Cuba. He kept himself busy performing with bands that played more popular Cuban genres. In 1964 he recorded with radio and TV Orchestra and with the jazz ensemble led by trombonist Pucho Escalante. Ruben appeared on titles, Que Infelicidad, Zancudo and Fantoche during the 1960's. It wasn't until 1974 when he recorded his first solo record. However, by the mid-1980's Ruben's piano was overcome by termites and he retired due to health concerns. The arrival of Ry Cooder in 1996 changed all of that. After the Buena Vista Social Club CD surprised everyone by becoming an international favorite, Nick Gold and World Circuit released a slew of recordings by members of the superstar band, including Ruben Gonzalez.
Momentos begins with a chachacha, Date Una Vueltecita, recorded in 1975. Ruben is in top form and light on the fingers, his piano bonding tightly with the Cuban drums. On the track, Enriqueta Ruben's piano joins the rhythm section and he creates space for warm horns to come through, this is what I meant earlier when I mentioned that he knew when to shine and when to allow others to take the lead. He does, however, get his chance to shine on this track. Patience and humility have their rewards. It is however, unfortunate, that the other musicians on this track, especially the lead horn player are not included in the liner notes. Cuban music, after all, is collaborative. The third track, Fabiando, recorded in 1975, shows Ruben in top form performing syncopated runs up and down the keyboard and backed by delicious Cuban rhythms. Indestructible with its tear drenching organ washes and shimmering piano tugs ever so gently on the heartstrings. The tracks on the CD range from 1965 to 1975, which goes back a long time. His more recent releases would therefore be worth checking out as well.
Ruben Gonzalez might have seemed small in physical stature, but he is still considered a giant as far as musical legends go. I felt a deep sadness the day I learned Ruben had passed away. He is one of my favorite BVSC musicians because his music and personality touched a soft spot in my heart. He taught me that humility is an important ingredient for musical success. One doesn't need to be bold and boisterous to get noticed, but just shine at the appropriate moments. Although the truly Great Ones never die, I still feel a deep loss knowing that Ruben has left the room and once again the termites have rented space in Ruben's piano. Those fortunate critters! 11/11/05 >> go there
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