latin

Mr Bongo

Sergio Mendes - Mas Que Nada

http://www.mrbongo.com/product/montuno-sessions-live-from-studio-a-lp-1325

This album was born when Mr Bongo met Al Angelero, DJ and producer of the Bronx radio show Montuno - Live From Studio A on 99.5 FM, whilst in NYC on a record buying trip. Al had a handful of recordings from Bronx jam sessions on tape featuring some of the most heavyweight players of all time including Charlie Palmieri, Charanson and Henry and Orlando Fiol.

The recordings were made between 1986 and 1989.

Charanson - Descarga (Around Midnight)

http://www.mrbongo.com/product/latin-beats-cd-boxset-1155

Previously only available as separate albums, this boxset contains over 120 tracks from the mambo and boogaloo to the sounds of fania, Latin funk and jazz as well as contemporary remixes from the likes of Gilles Peterson, Masters at Work, Quantic and Bonde de Role.

Artists featured in this release include Tito Puente, Pete Rodriguez, Ray Barretto, Fania All-Stars, Lenni Sesar, La Lupe, Charlie Palmieri All-Stars, Henry & Orlando Fiol, Don Barreto, Havana Casino Orchestra, Lecuona Cuban Boys, Sao Benitez, Cachao Y Su Orquestra, Dave Cortez, Jose Conde, Hanny, Beny More, Jack Costanzo and many many more.

Jose Conde Y Ola Fresca - El Chacal

When it comes to Latin soul, Bobby Matos And The Combo Conquistadores 'Tema De Alma Latina', has to be up there as one of the heaviest tracks ever recorded. This much-loved Latin workout has been rocking dancefloors for years with its infectious, driving energy and pulsating rhythms. Released in 1968, the 'My Latin Soul' album on Philips Records now receives a welcome reissue on Mr Bongo. It’s a sheer delight throughout and a premier example of the Nu Yorican sound that was thriving in New York in the ‘60s. 

From a young age, the Bronx, New York-born Latin jazz percussionist Bobby Matos found inspiration through the conga drum masters Mongo Santamaría and Patato Valdez (who he had informal backstage lessons with) and timbales legends Willie Bobo and Tito Puente. Bobby was drawn into New York's club scene and began playing in the vibrant ‘60s beat / bohemian Greenwich Village cafes, followed by stints in a wide range of different venues. These included Bronx dance halls and after-hours clubs in El Barrio, through to the elegance of Carnegie Hall, Central Park concerts, and off-Broadway theatres.

Later relocating to Los Angeles, Bobby played an important role in spreading Latin music far and wide. He became an inspiration to many on the jazz dance and acid jazz scenes in the ‘80s / '90s where his recordings were picked and played, becoming prized collector items amongst DJs. The track 'Tema De Alma Latina' was immortalised as a classic for many, after being featured on the Gilles Peterson’s Street Sounds Jazz Juice 5 compilation in 1987. A captivating listen from start to finish, the album features other treats such as the dynamic album opener ‘Nadie Baila Como Yo’, the blazing flute led 'Mambo Maxims', and the blistering piano shuffler 'Raices'. 

A truly iconic Latin classic whether you’re being reunited with it like an old friend or discovering it as a fresh new find.


Bobby Matos And The Combo Conquistadores - Caliente Y Grasoso

Mr Bongo