Gonzalo Rubalcaba: Paseo

Rubalcaba has said, "I used to do an album or two a year, but that pace doesn't give you the opportunity to think—you have to produce. However, I want the opportunity to think, as well."

With Ignacio Berroa, Armando Gola and Felipe Lamoglia, the pianist re-creates his music with depth of emotion and an outpouring of passion. The sound is contemporary. The roots are traditional Cuban. And the result tugs at your heartstrings.

Rubalcaba cascades with soothing showers when desired and pumps up the rhythmic spirit elsewhere. The title track, "Paseo Con Fula," takes his audience on a journey through childhood memories of street celebration and happy occasions. We all carry those precious memories around with us. Happy faces and warm embraces are usually accompanied by festive music. Here, the pianist combines those distant memories with a contemporary musing. With acoustic piano or keyboards, he's inclined to speak out with a free spirit. The music lets you turn loose the ties that bind. Relax and enjoy. Translated, the piece means "Walk With Fula," the composer's dog. Hey, it works. Take a walk, forget all your troubles, and let the creative spirit take over.

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