Given the miserable state of the record biz these days, it’s unlikely that Ricardo Lemvo’s 5th release ‘Isabela’ will get the kind of exposure that made him one of the biggest stars on the international music circuit. Which is a shame, since ‘Isabella’, is arguably his best recording since the early releases that produced such dance floor classics such as ‘Mambo Yo Yo’.
Singing in six languages, Lemvo has pushed way beyond the salsa/west African material that he’s famous for, bringing in guests such as vocalist Maria de Barros (Cape Verde),
Congolese guitar legend Papa Noel and recent visitor to Lula Lounge, violinist Alfredo de La Fe- to push the boundaries between of African and Latin American music even further than his previous work . As usual, Montreal’s Jesus Alejandro “El Nino” acts as arranger on much of the record, and – for the dancers – there are some great salsas including the killer track ‘Kasongo Boogaloo’ (which I started playing the minute I got the record).
You probably wont find ‘Isabella’ in any record stores, but not to worry, Ricardo Lemvo is bringing copies to sell at his May 9th appearance for Lulaworld. Another reason to buy your tickets in advance…... billy bryans 04/28/09