"Our Latin Thing (Nuestra Cosa)" by the Fania All-Stars
A foundational piece of Latin music excellence.
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Welcome to a new edition of the Daily Music Picks newsletter!
Todayâs music pick is an indelible early-1970s window into Latin musical and cultural excellence.
Genre: Salsa, Cha-Cha, GuaguancĂł, Guajira
Label: Fania
Release Date: August 26, 1971
Vibe: đ
Of North Americaâs most important contributions to the cultural landscape of the 1970s, New Yorkâs salsa explosion may be the most significant. Its influence has touched everything from glam rock to disco and R&B to hip-hop and has inspired countless free-wheeling musicians. Of all the cultural documents showcasing what its label calls the âexciting lifestyle of New York Latinosâ of the period, none are more exhilarating than Our Latin Thing.
This album is the soundtrack for the film of the same name and represents arguably the finest collection of Latin superstars ever on one recording: Johnny Pacheco, RubĂ©n Blades, Willie ColĂłn, Ray Barretto, Ismael Miranda, and HĂ©ctor Lavoe, to name just a few. And, after a 40th anniversary remastering that markedly improved the sound quality, these live performances now sound better than ever. From the infectious groove of âDescarga Faniaâ to the nearly 17-minute centerpiece âQuĂtate TĂș,â thereâs a lot to love here for salsa and guaguancĂł veterans and newbies alike.
Itâs Friday. Itâs summer. Take my advice and play this one on the best quality speakers you have, preferably with the windows open and the sun shining in.
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