The most jazz-oriented of the elderly musicians in
the Buena Vista Social Club, pianist
Rubén González was 77 at the time of this CD, his debut as a leader. Although he did not even own his own piano at the time, he plays brilliantly, performing a variety of traditional melodies plus two originals, often quoting other songs and really stretching himself. His chord voicings are distinctive and very inviting, his control of the piano is quite impressive, and the music sings its heart out. The CD was recorded spontaneously over a two-day period with
González mostly being the lead voice, assisted by trumpeter Manuel Mirabal (who has some fine solos), bassist
Orlando "Cachaito" Lopez, several percussionists, and occasionally three background singers. This set is impossible not to love. ~ Scott Yanow