On this 13-track recording of voice and piano duets, there is no doubt from the first note to the last that you are experiencing the complete mastery of two Cuban music legends. Individually, the genius Valdés brings to his instrument, the piano, and the dramatic, bluesy, off-the-cuff singing (in Spanish) of the husky, pitch-perfect, purely articulated Portuondo, can both easily stand alone. But together, in this setting, they are making magic. You'll hear a variety of themes written by non-published Cuban composers (two by ...
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On this 13-track recording of voice and piano duets, there is no doubt from the first note to the last that you are experiencing the complete mastery of two Cuban music legends. Individually, the genius Valdés brings to his instrument, the piano, and the dramatic, bluesy, off-the-cuff singing (in Spanish) of the husky, pitch-perfect, purely articulated Portuondo, can both easily stand alone. But together, in this setting, they are making magic. You'll hear a variety of themes written by non-published Cuban composers (two by Valdés, ) suggested on the spot in the studio. It allows the two a rare spontaneity and freedom from rhythmic structures that is created, not produced. There are songs of love, regret, straight blues, the indomitable spirit of the oppressed Cuban peoples, pleading for salvation, and especially, lost in depression ("No Puedo Ser Feliz" ("Cannot Be Happy"). No need to break them down, just know that the razor's-edge emotions and the integrity of this simpatico pairing of musicians and friends melds perfectly with every twist, turn, phrase, dynamic shading, and teardrop. Valdés uses a raft of jazz inflections, classical references, and folk melodies at his command throughout. Portuondo is never limp or mushy, always forceful in singing what's on her troubled mind, and expresses it in a way you clearly understand even if you don't know the words. Her meaning is unmistakable. A triumphant recording to be sure, and a hallmark in the annals of the continuing attempt to expose American audiences to the rich traditions of folkloric jazz-informed Afro-Cuban culture. A must buy. ~ Michael G. Nastos, Rovi
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Add this copy of Desafios to cart. $2.69, good condition, Sold by Seattle Goodwill rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Seattle, WA, UNITED STATES, published 1999 by Intuition.
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Seller's Description:
All our items include the original disc(s) in the original case. Your purchase funds free job training and education in the greater Seattle area. Thank you for supporting Goodwill's nonprofit mission!
Add this copy of Desafios to cart. $3.86, fair condition, Sold by Goodwill of Orange County rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Santa Ana, CA, UNITED STATES, published 1999 by Intuition.
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Fair. This item has very light surface scratches that do not affect the use of the disc/s. This is a USED item. Case and cover may or may not have wear or damage. All items unless otherwise noted will include disc, case, and artwork. Codes have been used. Other contents such as booklets may vary, please inquire for details. All items ship Monday-Friday within 2-3 business days.
Add this copy of Desafios to cart. $4.48, very good condition, Sold by Streetlight_Records rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Santa Cruz, CA, UNITED STATES, published 1999 by Nube Negra Records.
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Very Good. Size: 5x4x0; Disc in VG+ condition. Case and artwork are Like New. This item is guaranteed to play perfectly, with all original artwork and materials.
Add this copy of Desafios to cart. $86.58, new condition, Sold by Entertainment by Post - UK rated 3.0 out of 5 stars, ships from BRISTOL, SOUTH GLOS, UNITED KINGDOM, published 1999 by Intuition.
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