Mejor De La Vida
The 90-year-old Cuban guitarist and singer introduced to much of the world on Ry Cooder'sBuena Vista Social Club, is back with his own album. While Segundo uses his own group here, the disc has the same combination of delicate acoustic guitars, complex Afrocaribbean rhythms, and relaxed, impromptu feel asBuena Vista. Segundo has chosen songs from his first heyday in the 1920s and 1930s, and perfectly captures their classic flavor without making them sound like museum pieces. While less varied than the all-star Cooder project, the album has lead vocals by several legendary Cuban singers, occasional, understated horns, and surprisingly appropriate guest shots by the revolutionary bard Silvio Rodriguez and flamenco guitarist Raimundo Amador. Segundo lets the guests shine, but it is his harmonies and deft guitar work that holds the disc together, and his flawless musicianship thoroughly justifies this more expansive showcase.--Elijah Wald