Colombia All Stars: Tu Tierra Te Extrana

Latin Beat Magazine, April, 2007 by Rudy Mangual

COLOMBIA ALL STARS Tu Tierra Te Extraña (Codiscos)

This production from the Colombian record label Codiscos is the first in a series to promote and salute the talents of Colombian musicians in the tropical dance genre. The concept of the Colombia All Stars was initially conceived in 2003, at New York City's Madison Square Garden, by bandleader/percussionist Diego Galé. Balé, who was touring with his band at the time, was approached by a famous promoter with a request to organize and direct ah all-star cast of Colombian musicians, with the purpose of honoring the musical culture of their native country. Producer Galé assembled a powerful band, reinforced by a selective cast of young and veteran artists from his country's palette of popular dance music. Featured all-stars members include Wilson "Saoco" Manyoma, Cheo Morán, Charlie Cardona, Checo Acosta, Juan Piña, Carlos Guerrero, Grupo Galé and King Bongó, among others. This recording delivers healthy doses of salsa, vallenato and cumbia. Highlights include the selections Soy Colombiano, Mi Pueblo Querido, Lleno de 17, La Pollera Colorá and Magdalena. (RM)