Search - Guty Cardenas :: Ruisenor Yucateco

A Superb Collection

Nicholas T. Follansbee | 08/30/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Since my chance acquaintance with the art of Guty Cardenas during a trip to Mexico a dozen years ago, I've hungered for more, and this CD delivers. During the mid to late 1920s, the Yucatan produced a number of great singers and popular composers whose music was influenced by Cuba but which had its own distinct flavor. Guty Cardenas became the most famous of these Yucatecan singer-composers (he was also a fine guitarist), and once one hears his lyrical light tenor it is easy to understand why. There is a marvelous purity and integrity as well as a gentle sweetness in his work. His death in a barroom brawl in 1931 was a terrible tragedy and an incalculable loss to Mexican music.



This collection is magnificent and includes many of his most memorable songs. The recording quality is surprisingly good, considering the antiquity of the original records, and what deficiencies there are should not diminish one's enjoyment. Since Amazon provides samples to listen to, I suggest giving "Un Cruel Puñal" a try. Also, if possible, listen to "Mirenme Esos Ojitos" (I don't recall if there is a sample available). These two are not only wonderful, but they demonstrate a wide stylistic and emotional range. I also find the first number, "Era," hauntingly beautiful. If you like these the others will not disappoint.



Guty, in his day, was enormously popular, and the other musicians he worked with were among the best. Accompaniments are immensely accomplished. It is sad that he is now so forgotten that there is only the one CD generally available, but I am grateful that this one is so fine."