Guisando / Doing A Job

Guisando / Doing A Job- Album Overview

Released in 1978, "Guisando / Doing A Job" is a pivotal album by the legendary Puerto Rican salsa singer Héctor Lavoe. This project, produced under the Fania Records label, showcases Lavoe's powerful vocal talent and innovative approach to salsa music. The album features a collaboration with the renowned musician Willie Colón, who was instrumental in crafting the sound that defined the salsa genre during this era. The recording sessions took place in New York City, a cultural melting pot that greatly influenced the music style present in the album.

The album includes notable tracks such as "La Muerte," "El Día de los Muertos," and "Guisando," which highlight Lavoe's ability to blend traditional salsa rhythms with contemporary influences. The lyrics often reflect themes of love, loss, and the struggles of life in the urban setting, resonating with many fans. Lavoe’s unique vocal delivery, characterized by its emotional depth and improvisational flair, played a significant role in shaping the sound of salsa and elevating its status in the music industry.

"Guisando / Doing A Job" is not just an album; it represents a cultural movement that helped to popularize salsa music across borders, influencing many artists and contributing to the genre's global recognition. Singles from the album received considerable airplay, further solidifying Lavoe's place as one of the most important figures in Latin music history. The album's production quality, driven by the expertise of Fania’s production team, helped to create a sound that was both vibrant and authentic, ensuring its place as a classic in the salsa canon.

Review

The sound of "Guisando / Doing A Job" is a quintessential representation of late 1970s salsa, characterized by its lively rhythms, rich brass arrangements, and Lavoe's charismatic vocals. The production is polished yet retains a raw energy that captures the essence of the streets of New York. Lyrically, the album dives deep into the human experience, with Lavoe's storytelling ability shining through in every track. His voice, at times smooth and melodious, and at others gritty and powerful, conveys a wide range of emotions that resonate with listeners.

The artistic vision presented in this album is one of authenticity and cultural pride. Lavoe's commitment to capturing the intricacies of life as a Latino in a big city is evident throughout, making the music relatable to many. The collaboration with Willie Colón brings a dynamic interplay of musical styles, with Colón's mastery of the trombone providing a vibrant counterpoint to Lavoe's vocals. Together, they created a sound that was not only innovative but also deeply rooted in the traditions of salsa music.

Highlights

• Powerful and emotive vocal performance by Héctor Lavoe.
• Innovative use of brass instrumentation that enhances the salsa sound.
• Rich lyrical content that explores deep and relatable themes.

Weak points

• The album may feel less accessible to listeners unfamiliar with salsa music.
• Some tracks may be overshadowed by the standout singles.
• Occasional production choices may feel dated to modern ears.

Overall evaluation

"Guisando / Doing A Job" is a landmark album that showcases Héctor Lavoe's immense talent and the vibrant energy of salsa music during the late 1970s. Its cultural significance and musical innovation make it a must-listen for any fan of Latin music.