Master Session 2

Usually, when you pick up a CD by Artist X emblazoned with "Volume II," you expect: okay, here are the tunes that weren't good enough to make the first cut, and since the first CD was a success and we've already got these additional tunes in the can, let's make a few more bucks off this deal.

Thankfully, this is far from the truth with Cuban bassist Israel Lopez, a.k.a. 'Cachao,' producer Andy Garcia (yes, *that* Andy Garcia), and executive producer Emilio Estevez, Jr. While I never really connected with Volume I, this 1995 release of Volume II is something I have played over and over and over again. That's really saying something about the quality of Vol. II, since Vol. I was, after all, nothing short of a Grammy award-winning release.

Unluckily, this CD came out right around the same time as almost simultaneous releases from Buena Vista Social Club, Afro-Cuban All-Stars, and pianist Ruben Gonzalez. So Cachao, Vol. II got a little buried in the wave of publicity that...Read more

Cachao, a cuban, was the originaot of what is now known as Salsa. His danzones, mambos, and descargas are known world-wide as being the best of the best. He is also deemed one of the greatest bassists of our time. His music in this album is excellent, especially "Spoon Lips." Well worth every penny sent.

I absolutely love this CD. The rich African beat along with the latin mix make this a mesmerizing experience. I recommend both Volumes 1 and 2. I first heard this music after watching Dance With Me and I had to own both volumes. Thank you Cachao for sharing your special gift.