Craft Latino’s reissue of Traigo de Todo, marking Fania Records’ 60th anniversary, breathes new life into the 1974 classic from Ismael Rivera—a seminal figure in Latin music, often affectionately known as “Maelo.” This album, released during Rivera’s post-prison renaissance, radiates the sounds of resilience, cultural pride, and spiritual rebirth. Traigo de Todo finds Rivera at a pivotal moment in his career, where his profound personal transformation mirrored the blossoming complexity of the salsa genre. His voice, famously smooth yet smoky, weaves through infectious rhythms, offering both fervent uplift and contemplative depth.
The album opens with “El Nazareno”, a standout track where Rivera’s devotion to Cristo Negro (Black Christ) takes center stage. His voice sways with reverence, and his lyrical delivery captures the balance between faith and humility. The song transcends religious devotion, resonating as a celebration of Rivera’s journey toward redemption and self-realization. This anthem has an undeniable spiritual charge that reflects Rivera’s resolve to reconnect with his roots and his own path, making it one of the most memorable tracks of his career. Another notable track, “Qué te pasa a ti,” is a masterful blend of Rivera’s soulful, sultry vocals and Latin rhythms that invite listeners to move. It’s impossible to resist the groove as Rivera’s vocal charisma turns the track into a warm, flirtatious exchange, perfectly juxtaposing the spirituality of “El Nazareno.” His voice carries an energy that enlivens and celebrates the diversity of Puerto Rican music and culture, painting a vibrant, joyous picture of life and resilience.
Side B opens with the title track, “Traigo de Todo,” a song that stands as Rivera’s declaration of artistic and personal transformation. Filled with rhythmic complexity, the song’s layered textures invite repeated listens as Rivera proudly claims his identity and experiences. In “El Niche,” Rivera plays with syncopated beats and intricate vocal improvisations, infusing each verse with charisma that shows why he is still considered one of salsa’s most influential voices. This track also leans into Rivera’s gift for improvisation, adding a jazz-like feel to the salsa rhythms. As the album draws to a close, “Yo no quiero piedras en mi camino” feels almost like a personal manifesto. Rivera’s voice is filled with conviction, echoing his hard-won freedom from both literal and metaphorical constraints. The song acts as a closing statement for the album, reiterating his resilience and his determination to move forward, free of obstacles.
Rivera’s vocal power and artistry on Traigo de Todo embody his journey—its joys, struggles, and revelations. His music is inseparable from his life story, a tapestry woven with the threads of Puerto Rican heritage, jazz influences, and his deep spirituality. This album is both an ode to the vibrant salsa scene of the 1970s and a personal testament, filled with emotion, rhythm, and a profound sense of purpose.
