Dive into the vibrant and infectious rhythms of Pérez Prado's "King of Mambo, Vol. 2," a 2019 compilation that captures the essence of the legendary Cuban bandleader's contributions to the mambo genre. This album, released on October 4, 2019, under Lumi Entertainment and distributed by Warner X, is a lively collection of 15 tracks that span a variety of Latin genres, including mambo, cha cha cha, son cubano, Latin jazz, and exotica. With a total runtime of 37 minutes, it's a concise yet powerful journey through the sounds that made Pérez Prado, often hailed as the 'King of the Mambo,' a household name in the 1950s.
The album kicks off with the energetic "Que rico el mambo" and continues with a mix of Prado's original compositions and well-known standards like "Cerezo Rosa" and "Guantanamera." Fans of Prado's work will recognize classic tracks such as "Maria Bonita" and "Mambo 5," while newcomers will be introduced to the infectious beats of "Te para dos" and "Mambo 8." The album also showcases Prado's versatility with tracks like "Mambo en sax" and "Mambo en trompeta," highlighting his mastery of different instruments within the mambo genre.
Pérez Prado, born Dámaso Pérez Prado on December 11, 1916, was a Cuban bandleader, pianist, composer, and arranger who played a pivotal role in popularizing the mambo. His influence extends beyond this album, with a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on Latin music. "King of Mambo, Vol. 2" is a testament to his enduring legacy, offering a snapshot of his innovative arrangements and dynamic performances.
Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Pérez Prado's music, this album is a celebration of the mambo's rich history and the man who became its king.
Vinylscout