In 1948, club owner George Goldner made the decision to start his first record label, Tico Records, which would focus solely on Latin artists. It signed artists like Ray Barretto, Ismael Rivera, and, most famously, Tito Puente. Though it was sold in 1974 to legendary New York Latin label Fania Records, new releases continued to be put out under the Tico name until 1981 and rereleases of their extensive catalog continue under that name to this day. In honor of Tico Records 75th anniversary, Fania Records is releasing a compilation of songs spanning a decade from 1962-1972. Hit the Bongo! The Latin Soul of Tico Records is a captivating and rhythmically rich compilation that takes listeners on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant world of Latin music. Released as a celebration of the iconic Tico Records, this album is a treasure trove of timeless tracks that showcase the label’s profound impact on Latin soul and salsa music.
The album starts with “El Watusi,” a famous Latin dance track by Ray Barretto Y Su Charanga Moderna, released in 1962. The song, written by Ray Barretto himself, is a classic example of boogaloo music, a genre that emerged in the 1960s, fusing Afro-Cuban rhythms with R&B and soul influences. Ray Barretto’s “El Babalú” also appears on the collection and is one of his signature tracks, showcasing his exceptional skills as a percussionist and his ability to fuse Afro-Cuban rhythms with elements of jazz and salsa. There are also some excellent cover versions on Hit the Bongo! La Lupe, the acclaimed Cuban-American singer, known for her passionate and energetic performances, recorded a notable version of “Fever,” originally a jazz and R&B standard written by Eddie Cooley and Otis Blackwell and made famous by Peggy Lee. La Lupe’s rendition of “Fever” is distinctive and memorable, thanks to her powerful and soulful vocal delivery.
One of the most fun covers is Tito Puente and Celia Cruz’s version of The 5th Demension’s psychedelic soul hit, “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In.” In their rendition of this medley, Tito Puente and Celia Cruz brought their unique Latin flavor and energy to the well-known songs. The traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms, the pulsating percussion, and Celia Cruz’s passionate and powerful vocals added a distinctly Latin and salsa twist to the originally rock-oriented “Hair” songs. The title track by Tito Puente is characterized by its infectious rhythm, dynamic horn arrangements, and a prominent percussion section featuring bongo drums, congas, and timbales. “Hit the Bongo” showcases Puente’s exceptional skills as a percussionist and his talent for composing music that gets people dancing. The bongo drum plays a central role in the track, creating a lively and invigorating beat that is both rhythmic and melodic. Of course, the collection wouldn’t be complete without Tito Puente’s most famous track, “Oye Como Va.” The song is characterized by its infectious and rhythmic melody, driven by the distinctive rhythm of the cha-cha-cha. The song would later become a timeless hit for Santana as they injected it with their Latin rock and blues influences.
One of the standout features of “Hit the Bongo!” is its ability to seamlessly weave together various subgenres within Latin music. From the fiery salsa rhythms that will make you want to hit the dance floor to the more laid-back bolero and mambo tunes, this album offers a dynamic and varied listening experience. Each track is a testament to the extraordinary talent of the artists who graced Tico Records’ roster, with their unmatched vocal prowess and instrumental skill. The compilation introduces listeners to some of the most influential figures in Latin music history, including The Modern Sound of Al Escobar, The Joe Cuba Sextet, Celia Cruz, and many more, whose tracks are not only timeless but also a vital part of Latin music’s foundation. Hit the Bongo!” also showcases the evolution of Latin music throughout the years, highlighting the fusion of African, Caribbean, and Latin influences that have contributed to the genre’s unique sound. The tracks provide a window into the past while remaining incredibly relevant today, demonstrating the timelessness of Latin soul. The album’s expertly remastered tracks ensure that the sound quality is crisp and clear, allowing the listener to appreciate the nuances of each instrument and the passion in every vocal performance. Whether you’re an aficionado of Latin music or simply someone looking for a lively and invigorating listening experience, this album is an outstanding choice.
