This is the recording that made
Victor Manuelle a household name, placing him in the front rank of the most celebrated Puerto Rican salsa singers. The typically loud and brash
Sergio George production seems an adequate backdrop for the talents of the improvisational singer, who finally reached his personal identity with this CD. This production features
George's usual New York personnel: brass men
José "Ite" Jerez,
David "Piro" Rodríguez,
William Cepeda, and
Jimmy Bosch contribute heavily, while rhythm men
Marc Quiñones,
Rubén Rodríguez, and
Luis Quintero, together with
Manuelle's timbalero and band director,
Chago Martínez, make a rabid, compelling percussive ensemble. Highlights include the smash hit "Hay Que Poner el Alma" (composed by
Omar Alfanno), "Todo Quedo, Quedo," and
Johnny Ortiz' ebullient salsa homage "Ahora Me Toca a Mí." One of
Manuelle's most important productions, this is constantly requested during his public performances and tours. ~ José A. Estévez, Jr.