Dale Campana

Pianist and bandleader Juan Carlos Alfonso will have salsa fans and dance clubbers grooving with his 2005 record, Dale Campana. From the very first dance-friendly, four-on-the-floor songo/disco track, "Volvieron las Campanitas," Alfonso hails the return of that irresistible Cuban instrument and its delicious groove. A step up in intensity from his last offering, Pasión, Dale packs a heftier punch. The songwriting is as fine as ever, and Alfonso continues to distinguish himself as a very real presence in the Latin dance world. Alfonso's voice behind the keys is sharp and precise, if not very exploratory. Though there are moments Alfonso's keys appear disguised as an overdriven electric guitar or plastic-sounding horn section, he has backed away from the keyboard-dominated mentality that was his weakness in projects gone by. There is still a heavily synthesized component present that Dan Den fans won't be able to get away from, which is perhaps the best argument for hiring live musicians, budget or no. However, it's much more balanced in Alfonso's more recent efforts. There's a heavy Van Van vibe that speaks well for Alfonso and Dan Den. Though not breaking new ground, Dale Campana certainly has ground to stand on. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez, Rovi