Latin Record Rack

This compilation showcases the latest tendencies in Cuban salsa, a genre that is mutating as it assimilates elements from other cultures. The results are usually marvelous, but can also be quite irritating.

Undeniably, bands such as Los Van Van and NG La Banda, whose latest hits are included here, are made up of extremely talented musicians. But their music suffers from a desire to imitate American funk and the excessive use of syncopation and studio gimmicks, seemingly in an effort to add more spice to their salsa.

Of the four artists represented, only Adalberto Alvarez (former pianist for the group Son 14) manages to keep his good taste intact while still swinging as only the great ones can.