Oscar Valdes - Leyenda Viva (2009)

Chucho Valdés, who wrote the liner notes, says that percussionist Oscar Valdés should be credited with the fiery rhythms of true timba. Chucho should know, as he and Oscar worked side by side in the Cuban superband Irakere. Leyenda Viva reflects a broad vision, and a musical intelligence that is founded on folkloric roots. With percussion as the springboard, Oscar and his band Diákara tread the territories of rumba, Afro-Cuban jazz, timba-son, and, with the help of guest Omara Portuondo, a balada duet.