Search - Cuco Valoy :: En Dos Tiempos

The title's English translation reads "In Two Worlds," but this set from tropical music's revered "witch doctor" derives from more than traditional and modern salsa. Mister Rhythm's global village extends even to planet Jamaica's reggae and the international hip-hop state of mind. Born and raised in "merengue land," a.k.a. the Dominican Republic, where he was conservatory-trained in music theory, Valoy and his brother Martin formed Los Ahijados, the island's first Afro-Cuban orchestra. In 1975, after that thrill of the new wore thin, Mr. Rhythm formed the legendary Los Virtuosos (later renamed La Tribu), bringing the vocalist-percussionist worldwide acclaim. Having shared the stage with other legends, among them Celia Cruz, Machito, Johnny Pacheco, and Oscar D'Leon, this versatile artist dazzles in any Latin music groove, from tropical swing to cha cha, as this record reconfirms... with one tiny but discordant exception. Those coarsely growled raps--part reggae, part stateside style--in "Bandolera," "Carlito," and "Los Chulos" are unnecessary attempts to win younger listeners. No one, especially in these salsa-crazed times, needs extra enticement to get with La Tribu's rhythm and melody opulence and Valoy's warm, elastic vocals. --Elena Oumano