Friday, February 1, 2013

CD Review: Plena Libre's 'Corazon'

Plena Libre
Corazon
GN Musica

Plena Libre is a vibrant dance group to come out of Puerto Rico. The band presents us with plena and bomba dance beats with an equal dose of meringue, songo, Latin jazz, and some rock elements. The energetic music is characteristic of many groups in Latin America and the Caribbean. The rich percussion, horns, vocals, and melodies are never boring or lacking enthusiasm. The lush harmonies and upbeat jibaro grooves are something to enjoy. The director, Gary Nunez, plays the bass, while others play various hand drums, guiro, keyboards, congas, piano, timbale, and trombones. The fluid melodies are indicative of Brazilian samba, but the music is definitely inspired by the danceable rhythms of the Caribbean. Corazon is the heart and soul of Puerto Rican music. ~ Matthew Forss  

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