Una Década

Performer: Rubén Blades
Producer: Ruben Blades
Distributor: Sony Music Distribution (

Notes: If you've never seen a group of salsa musicians halt mid-conversation, mention Rub�n Blades. His name is sure to be followed by a pause, wide eyes, and nods of recognition and respect. To try and compile work that spans a decade of any artist as widely respected and revered as Sr. Blades would prove daunting, but Una D�cada manages to meet and exceed expectation. Beginning with "Caminando" and "Amor y Control," tunes so melodically and rhythmically infectious that even non-Spanish speakers will find themselves singing the coro, it's easy to see how Rub�n became a cornerstone of the New York salsa sound. As Blades' career progressed, so did his interest in a more diverse palette of Latin American musical styles, as shown by the second half of this record. With a slinky and evocative cumbia, like "Eres Mi Canci�n," to a dark and profound rhumba, "Estampa," the common thread throughout is the brilliant musicianship and lyrical excellence that has always set Blades apart from his fellow salseros. The story that you hear from this record is Blades' journey from a fiery, visceral young talent to a sophisticated and masterful musician's musician. From the incisive political nature of his writing to the crystalline arrangements and production, this is one decade in the history of salsa that ensures Blades' place for decades to come. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez Long known for his ability to incorporate a variety of styles and influences under the umbrella of salsa, Ruben Blades is one of South America's most brilliant musical ambassadors. From the experimental work of his '80s group Seis Del Solar to the world fusion of 2002's MUNDO (which featured didgeridoo and bagpipes amid Latin rhythms), Blades has shown his true colors as a musical explorer, activist, and poet (Blades's lyrics are complex and beautiful). Though undeniably a Blades effort, 2003's UNA DECADA is a more staunchly "Latin" album than much of the artist's earlier discography. UNA DECADA sports a clean, straightforward production, with crisp emphasis on the complex percussion parts and the warm piano that drives most of the melodies. Sunny, uptempo numbers, complete with infectious vocal choruses, are on offer here (the opener, "Caminando," for example, or the Mariachi-influenced "Sin Querer Queriendo"). Blades's skill with reflective ballads is still in evidence ("Adan Garcia"), as is his command of melody, as on the undulating, minor-key verses of "Prohibido Olvidar." And Blades's rough-hewn tenor is as beautiful, textured, and compelling as ever. UNA DECADA shows a mature, superb songwriter and musician working at the top of his game.

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