Description
Next up in the Mr Bongo Cuban Classics series is an essential outing by the mighty Juan Pablo Torres from 1978. Originally released on Cuba’s state-owned Areito imprint, Algo Nuevo showcases the trombonist, bandleader, arranger and producer’s exceptional ability to blend traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz-funk, psychedelic textures and infectious dancefloor energy.
The opening track, “Pan Caliente,” is an explosive introduction—full of la-la-la vocal chants, hypnotic percussion, punchy horns and squelching synths. “Guajira 2001” is a spirited, rhythm-heavy homage to the Cuban guajira style, marrying acoustic guitar with layered congas, bongos and brass for a bouncing, joyous groove.
“Cacao” is a standout—combining cosmic funk with Cuban flavor, its sharp clave rhythm and scatted vocal bursts nodding to George Kranz’s legendary “Din Daa Daa.” Meanwhile, “Elvira” dives deeper into Latin psychedelia, its synth flourishes and percussive breakdowns adding a delicious unpredictability.
Each track explores new terrain—be it syncopated rumba, downtempo funk, or Afro-Cuban jazz—all tied together by Torres' visionary arrangements and exploratory spirit.
With Algo Nuevo, Juan Pablo Torres delivers a playful, genre-blurring masterpiece that still resonates powerfully on contemporary dancefloors, adding yet another jewel to the crown of Cuban musical heritage.
Tracklist
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Pan Caliente
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Son De Caramelo Para Ti
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Guajira 2001
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Cacao
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Tatagua
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Rumba De Cajon Op 1
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Mangle
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Elvira
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Mayajigua
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Asi Son Con El Son