This compilation from Egrem features the work of Cuban composer
Marta Valdés. A variety of artists contribute to the set of cancións and boleros, in addition to a few numbers sung by
Valdés herself. The jazz influence is strong;
Elena Burke's "En la Imaginacion" and "Tu No Sospechas" from
Bola De Nieve are both bittersweet piano jazz ballads. Elsewhere,
Valdés' "¡Ay, Placido!" is done up in tasteful Spanish guitar, but "Cancion Facil" is almost the opposite with its swirling synthesizers and vaguely funky clavinet.
Musica de Marta Valdés is a strong introduction to the composer's work and is intriguing for its mix of American and Latin styles. ~ Johnny Loftus