This 1981 LP is an odd fit for both the master conguero Ray Barretto and the slick jazz-funk label CTI, but thanks to the top notch band (Palmieri, Puente, etc.) we can leave that for the geeks to worry over and just enjoy the music. The standout here has always been "Pastime Paradise," a Stevie wonder flipped lovely by this gang of masters. After dispensing with a perfunctory vocal intro the band runs the rhythm down like it should be run, suave. The title track is just about the perfect mojito sippin' soundtrack, and while "Doloroso" gets a little too smoothie, the slippery Arp groove of "Mambotango" tickles the ear. "The Old Castle" could creep into a deep disco playlist without too much trouble, and with that cowbell/conga breakdown is a fat duck for a clever editor.

• black vinyl pressing
• original release year: 1981
• music label: CTI Records 2026

reviewed by Monk 10/2005