Mel Martinez: Pa' La Calle

Latin Beat Magazine, April, 2007 by Rudy Mangual

MEL MARTINEZ Pa' La Calle (Envidia)

Born in Connecticut and raised in the town of Orocovis, Puerto Rico, Mel Martínez started singing at the age of seven, winning a school talent recognition award for his interpretation of En Mi Viejo San Juan. In 1986, he relocated with his family to California, where years later, he began to sing with some of the local salsa bands (Orquesta La Radiante, Orquesta Sensual, and Orquesta de Elvin Rosario). In 1993, Martínez returned to Puerto Rico, and soon thereafter, recorded with Orquesta La Solución. Recommended by Víctor Manuelle to Roberto Roena, Martínez became part of Apollo Sound, where he stayed as lead vocalist for over two years. Next, he joined Tommy Olivencia's orchestra, debuting as a composer with the tune Sí Tú Te Vas. After a few years of performing with Olivencia, Martínez embarked on a solo career with his own band. His solo debut was titled Mel Sin Miedo, which included three of his own compositions.

This sophomore effort, titled Mel Pa" La Calle (Envidia Records), finds the singer/songwriter immersed in his salsa roots. Under the musical direction of pianist Willie Sotero, Martínez unveils a repertoire of 10 selections in the good company of background singers Jerry Medina, Henry Santiago and Rei Peña. Standout tracks include Como Tú No Hay Dos, Llegó Lo Que Tú Esperabas, Mi Vecina, and El Comentario. (RM)