The Great Salsa Dominicana

Ricky González – Oasis (Rumba Jams Recordings RJ1017-2, 2004)

The new album by Dominican producer, arranger and multi-instrumentalist Ricky González is a perfect example of the finest in contemporary salsa. González has played for many years with some of the biggest names in the Latin scene based in the United States, and that has allowed him to venture successfully into its varied music styles.  

Even though most music fans associate the Dominican Republic with merengue, Ricky González is an outstanding salsero. On Oasis, González presents a wide spectrum of songs, singing lead vocals on various tracks and playing piano, vibraphone, keyboards and percussion. He delivers top of the line present-day salsa on “Ya Era tiempo”, “Es mi Nueva York” (a tribute to New York City), “Quisqueya tiene salsa,” “Timbalero” and “Mi rumba es candela.” González gets help from renowned guests, who are some of the finest in the genre: Ray Barretto, José Alberto “El Canario”, Johnny Pacheco, Jimy Sabater, Orestes Vilato, Frankie Vázquez, Hermán Oliveras and Ray Viera.  

González embarks upon the romantic salsa field with the soulful “Quisiera ser,” putting to shame most of the major label Latin artists that are marketed as Romantic salsa, where the salsa component is nowhere to be seen. On “La Paga,” González combines contemporary tropical sounds with hip hop.   

There is dazzling Latin jazz on “Pair of Aces,” featuring vibraphone and [iano solos by González and a flute solo by Dave Valentín. “What You Won’t Do for love” is an explosive mix of R&B, and salsa with González singing in English and Spanish, with guest rapping by Fr3$co. “La Puerta” is a passionate bolero, sung in both Spanish and English, with a nostalgic big band feel.

Author: Angel Romero

Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.