Buena Vista Social Club Is Back In Action

By Michael Lopez

Back in the late ‘90s, everything old became new again with the resurgence of Cuba’s Buena Vista Social Club. Founded back in the 1940’s, the Havana hot spot housed dozens of eclectic Latin artists specializing in bolero, mambo, rumba, jazz, and more. Unfortunately, the club closed down, the musicians scattered, and they didn’t record together until some 50 years later. When the wildly successful Buena Vista Social Club album was released in 1997, most of the original gang were pushing 85 and up!

Thankfully, Barbarito Torres, Omara Portuondo, and Manuel Galban are still alive and planning to tour this summer! Their kickoff this weekend (backing up Goldfrapp at the Hollywood Bowl no less!) marked the first time the Buena Vista Social Club had appeared in America since 2003. With the older ages of many of its members, let’s hope it’s not the last.

According to Reuters, trombonist and band director Jesus "Aguaje" Ramos said the group was looking forward to playing again for fans. "For us, it's beautiful, because we left behind a public interested in Cuban music -- a public loyal to son, to danzon, to bolero," he said, referring to the group's musical styles.

Unfortunately, a few members are longer with us. Ibrahim Ferrer, who performed on the big hit Chan Chan (featured in "Training Day"), passed in ’05, followed by original pianist Ruben Gonzalez and bassist Orlando Lopez.

Most of us have all heard the album, but seeing this group of musicians perform live is an experience that transcends any set of iPod headphones. Even though visa issues delayed US appearances (and denied their NY visit – BOO!), their 25 date European tour is still going strong!

If you’ve got a summer Euro trip planned, do yourself a favor and catch Buena Vista Social Club on tour! You'll be glad you did.

Source: [Yahoo! News]

Are you a fan of Buena Vista Social Club? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3!

Tags Buena Vista Social Club, Tour, visa