Buena Vista Social Club
April 30, 2008
Venue: The Bridgewater Hall
Date Reviewed: 30th April
Like many, I first heard about this brilliant Cuban band via the award winning Wim Wenders’ documentary, which focused on World music’s best-kept-secret and their rise to fame. Since then I have seen them at Hyde Park and followed individuals within the group, with keen interest, including the wonderful Omara Portuondo.
Sadly though, many of these talented musicians have since passed away leaving four original members: Cahaito Lopez, Guajiro Mirabal, Aguaje Ramos and Manuel Galban. When this spellbinding gig begins, you sit highly expectant but the cynic in you believes that the new additions and lack of classics within the set list will be detrimental to your enjoyment.
For a short while, this is true as the gig takes a few minutes to warm up. Then, the Cuban beats and sultry feel of this wonderful music completely takes you over and you find yourself standing up and dancing, like your life depends on it. These musicians play like they are a quarter of their true age, swaying to the music, feeling every element.
Sure, the lack of timeless material like “Chan Chan” disappoints some in the audience but you do get stirring salsa beats on every track they play. Cachaito plays bass humbly and delights the crowd with his quiet but warm personality. Mirabal plays the trumpet with real precision. As for Ramos, his trombone playing has to be seen to be believed. You will not see more accomplished or passionate musicians anywhere else.
Guitarist Manuel Galban could play blindfolded and almost does, playing it over his shoulder to the delight of the enthusiastic crowd. This brilliant gig is full of surprises like that one, as this talented bunch continues to astound with their effortless workmanship. But it is their warmth that has the audience begging for more.
A couple of times, I shed a tear. But these were tears of joy, as Tuesday night at the Bridgewater Hall in the company of such greats was truly life affirming. If they are coming to a venue near you, go along, as Buena Vista Social Club will give you an unmissable night to remember.
Fanastico!
-Glenn Meads
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