"Salsa Con Conciencia" - La Excelencia

• artist:
  La Excelencia
• country:
  USA
• region:
  North America
• release year:
  2006
• style(s): Afro Salsa
• formats:
  • CD (Compact Disc)
• record submitted by:
  Handle With Care Productions Inc.
• label:
  Handle With Care Productions Inc.
• publisher:
  SilVaz Publishing
• 
  buy this record

LaVoz Magazine
Ok, so here at LaVoz we normally like to review the classics because in many ways, those old school rhythms were the swinging ones that embodied that true meaning of what we call 'salsa' music. Not this time folks! New York city's newest and most explosive band called "La Excelencia" is making sure people know their name. Their new album "Salsa Con Conciencia" is a testament to the original flavor from the 70's with a millenium generation twist. This album hits hard and just about every Dj in the salsa scene is starting to realize this. The first track, "La Lucha" is a nice tempo tune with a strong trombone line and great breaks that will make you happy you decided to dance it. This band definitely shows off their versatility through-out the album with other great tracks like "La Salsa y el Guaguanco," and "El Hijo de los Rumberos." But let's not forget what also makes this album special. During a time of social and political change, the young Excelencia brings you music with meaning, concrete lyrics that will also stimulate your mind. From the first time it went into the CD player we were sold, be another believer and get this album asap! - Chris Soto (Executive Editor)


New York Times
It takes just a note or two to hear that La Excelencia is different. This is unprettified salsa dura, with the percussion cranked, lots of breaks, the voices loud, almost distorted. It's the sound of a tough working band, the sort that used to be everywhere in New York and now are rare to find. It's unapologetic, and unafraid of its tradition, and the cd's staying in my player for a long time. The real deal doesn't show up that often, and here it is. Celebrate it. Highly Recommended. - Peter Watrous


New York Daily News
Ever heard of salsa dura? (hard-core salsa)? La Excelencia's debut album fits right into the Golden Age of the genre, back in the 70's. The percussionists José Vázquez-Cofresi and Julian Silva are vying to put an end to what they consider "salsa monga" (bland). With an enthralling swing, well-crafted harmonies, powerful horn arrangements and lively percussion, "Salsa con Conciencia" features lyrics that reflect the life in the barrio. Drug deals, high-speed car chases and an array of urban topics make this a rather unique debut album particularly appealing to the younger generations of New York Latinos. - by Pablo Calvi


Latin Beat Magazine
These young-bloods are the real thing. - Rudolph Mangual (Publisher, Editor-in-Chief)


Univision
"La Excelencia are fabuloso (fabulous)!" Tom McGarrity, President for Univision (Network Sales) New York