This excellent compilation of
Cortijo y Su Combo hits features four tunes available at the time the group left the Gema label. The band was at the brink of splitting up due to
Ismael Rivera's imprisonment, the departure of six bandmembers to form El Gran Combo, and
Cortijo's switch to Marvela Records. This is splendid music all the way, particularly the exciting "Druma Cuyi," the rousing "Yayabo," and the somewhat sillly "El Retorno de la Cucaracha." The band still remains in fine form as it closes a chapter in its history and in the history of Puerto Rican popular music. The cuts may be available in other formats. ~ José A. Estévez, Jr.