Unforgettable Boleros

by Alex HendersonIrakere has had its share of personnel changes over the years. Led by pianist/arranger Chucho Valdés, the Irakere lineup heard on 2000's Unforgettable Boleros includes, among others, bassist Carlos del Puerto, drummer Enrique Plá, trumpeters Mario Félix Hernández and Basilio Márquez, alto saxophonist César López, tenor saxophonist Alfredo Thompson, and percussionists José Miguel Meléndez and Andrés Miranda. This time, two vocalists are featured prominently: Mayra Caridad Valdés and Leo Vera; both of whom are perfect choices for an album that is devoted to classic boleros (Latin ballads). Recorded during a visit to São Paolo, Brazil, this excellent CD finds the veteran Cuban band turning its attention to famous boleros that range from Consuelo Velazquez's "Bésame Mucho," Ernesto Lecuona's "Estás en Mi Corazón," and Oswaldo Farres' "Tres Palabras" to Bobby Capo's "Piel Canela," and José Mendez's "Mi Mejor Canción." The title Unforgettable Boleros isn't an example of empty hype, these time-tested ballads are, in fact, hard to forget, and they have held up well over the years. Spanish-speaking vocalists who were born long after Velázquez wrote "Bésame Mucho" or Lecuona wrote "Estás en Mi Corazón" continue to find the songs meaningful. Unforgettable Boleros isn't among Irakere's more adventurous albums, but it is heartfelt and consistently rewarding.