Havana... After gazing, throughout the day, at the freshly painted and renovated walls of this city, as complementary backdrop for its equally renovated and painted citizens, haunting melodies enthrall the soul and entice towards a corner establishment. As the bar is approached, things become rather obvious... Beyond the frenetic raucous engulfing the Cuban country after the demise of the revolutionary government, there is a stalwart fringe that refuses to merely follow those who seem to know who, what, and how to follow... That is where we find human, or better yet, communal water holes of objective truth. The true roots of it all... The music performed that night by five viejitos, who seemed as oblivious to their surroundings, as they were deeply in touch with the most sacred emotions possible under the circumstances, was as soothing and stimulating as a night in the hands of a Cuban Geisha... If there is a music lounge in heaven, Rubén González, could perform as an Indestructible figure right up there. Wasn't this the guy that recorded in Buena Vista Social Club, and has other solo albums? Yep, but this is not quite the same thing; albeit, everything that was there is also in here, although in a different sabroso, economical and pensive mood. What a great way to live, and leave life... Their collective sound weaves a comfortable spiritual hammock in which to rest with ease and ponder the future, while dreaming of dancing its torrid moments with that jeva caliente you met at "El Nuevo Palladium Habanero" the other night... Now, should this be recorded and sold? You be the judge, for now drinking a Cuba Libre to a Free Cuba might be best...
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All About Jazz has been a pillar of jazz since 1995, championing it as an art form and, more importantly, supporting the musicians who create it. Our enduring commitment has made "AAJ" one of the most culturally important websites of its kind, read by hundreds of thousands of fans, musicians and industry figures every month.
