Back In the Day

Album Review

Remember Back in the Day (circa the '70s, to be exact) when groups like Malo, War, and Tierra fused classic soul and Latin brass elements so effortlessly that they seemed to be borne of the same culture? Legendary jazz percussionist Edgardo Cintron and producer/vocalist Rocco DePersia do, and they lead their alternately romantic and sizzling 15-piece Latin R&B band through a collection that is part-time travel, part contemporary blast. From the instantly recognizable joys of "Suavecito" and "Hey There Lonely Girl" (rendered with seamless and soaring brass-percussion-multiple vocal arrangements) through other familiar gems like "All Day Music" and "Expressway to Your Heart," it would be easy to get the idea that this is just a fun cover band — if only the originals weren't so damn feisty and danceable themselves. "Anita" is a magical late-night affair and "Another Night in San Juan" is picture-perfect, balmy Latin instrumental soul, complete with brilliant jazz piano and scorching horn textures. The title track ensures that the traditions of doo wop will always be a part of this fascinating musical hybrid. After a colorful twist on "Since I Fell for You," Cintron closes with the sweet doo wop harmonies of "Where Do We Go from Here?" — kindly encouraging us (as if they needed to) to ask for more of their low rider grooves and East Coast Latin soul.