Sing

Los Super Seven is a Latin American supergroup that has existed in some form since 1998. They have released only three albums; there last was released in 2005. Their lineup has fluctuated based on availability, but a few musicians have been involved in all three projects: David Hidalgo on guitars and vocals (and a primary member of Los Lobos) and Ruben Ramos on vocals (also known as Tejano musician El Gato Negro). The lineups have also included members of Calexico (a personal favorite band), the Mavericks, Ozomatli, and artists Clarence “Gatemout” Brown (guitar, vocals), Rodney Crowell (vocals), John Hiatt (vocals), and Delbert McClinton (vocals).

Their second album, Canto, received universal acclaim for its masterful mix of musical traditions from Mexico, Cuba and Peru. The album was released in 2001 and is a Spanish-speaking album.

#16 – Los Super Seven, Canto (Metascore = 91)

The album opens with “Siboney”, a beautiful Latin ballad with sparse instrumentation (piano, bass, and drums). The singer’s soul in the vocals really makes this song a pleasing listen. “Calle Dieceseis” features fantastic musicianship, beginning primarily with a slinky guitar line backed by airy drumming, organs, and bass. The song has a great salsa feel to it. “El Que Siembre Su Maiz” showcases a new singer and continues the fantastic salsa feel of the first few songs.

As previously mentioned, the musicians masterfully mix Latin musical traditions in crafting this record. The musicianship is fantastic throughout. The guitars snakily move in and out of the piano lines and bass foundation. The different singers (the singers seem to change up each song) provide their own soul to the songs, making for an even more enjoyable experience with the record.

The drawing power in this record is the musical performance. The musicians here are all masters at their craft and able to enchant the listener with their sounds. I found myself listening to this album several times and just really enjoying this album.