Rumbero's Poetry

Latin Beat Magazine, Nov, 1998 by Rudy Mangual

TOLU

Rumbero's Poetry

(Tonga)

The story of Tolú originates in the early 1980s when reedman Justo Almario felt the need to summon some of the top players in Los Angeles, California, to form a band which would allow its members to stretch and improvise within the realms of Latin music and jazz. This musical expression was not allowed in Latin dance clubs back then, and such unfair practice is still prevalent today in many clubs. Among the first founding members of the band were drummer Alex Acuña, percussionist Luis Conte, and trombonist Arturo Velasco. Through the years, the band attracted the best musicians of the city, making it one powerful Latin group. Due to the popularity of the majority of its members and their numerous conflicting commitments, Tolú was never able to structure itself as a full-time active band. Its rare appearances with modified cast, made Tolú special and interesting at the same time. Rumbero's Poetry was inspired by Tolú's reunion concert performance at the Wadsworth Theater of UCLA in Los Angeles. The enthusiasm generated by the capacity audience led to the resurrection of Tolú. The concert was recorded for the purpose of this production, but due to technical problems during the live recording, the producers decided to take the band to the studio to repeat the magic. And they did just that! Ten selections give a taste of this legendary ensemble of all-stars from the City of Angels, now co-led by Alex Acuña and Justo Almario. Tolú musicians are Luis Conte, Harry Kim, Ricardo "Tiki" Pasillas, John Peña, Joe Rotondi, Michito Sánchez, Arturo Velasco, and guest musicians Richie Garcia, Otmaro Ruiz, Ramon Stagnaro, and Luis Enrique. Deluxe packaging and excellent liner notes make this production a winner.