Dance Mania

When you listen to something like this you really get the feeling the Latin people are having way more fun than everybody else.

“Dance Mania” by Tito Fuentes and his orchestra (1958) Never heard of this album or artist, but I could see that this was going to be fun immediately upon dropping the needle on the record. I can dream, can’t I? The album came out when I was three years old, and this was a musical world with which, in later years, I would become only marginally familiar. My sister and I would dance cha-cha-cha in pre-adolescence. I got bongos for Christmas one year, learning the difference between cha-cha-cha, mambo, samba, and rumba (and the difference between the two bongo drums, macho and hembra, the full significance of which would only become clear when adolescence was over). Musically, I was taken by the rich depth of the brass (exclusively trumpets, with the lower tones all carried by reeds. Interesting.) The rhythms are not the hard driving Latin beats of Santana. This is dance music. Mostly mambo (listen for the syncopation on beat four in each measure) and cha-cha-cha, in slightly varying tempos from song to song. Sensuous, undulating. For dancers, forget your feet. It’s all about oscillation between the chest and lower abdomen (euphemisms). I’d better stop. Skillful marimba and vibraphone by Fuentes. All musicians play with precision and professional self discipline. Excellent jazz piano by Raymond Concepción. Very well recorded (for 1958), with excellent use of the newly developed stereophonic technology (generally brass on the right and reeds on the left—cool). Can you believe we actually used to listen to music in mono? Lyrics: Well, I’m certainly limited here, but the lyrics are meaningfully prominent on two songs. This is enough for me to gain an appreciation of the fact that Latin dance is more than just ‘happy music’, regardless how much cowbell I hear. On “Cuando Te Vea”, we have: Mañana cuando yo te vea Permite, que pueda explicarte Los momentos de amargura Que pase por ti mujer Yo comprendo, soy un hombre Lo que quiero nena linda Es disculparte Por los momentos de amargura Que pase por ti mujer (Tomorrow when I see you Let me explain The moments of bitterness Let it pass for you woman I understand, I am a man What I want pretty baby Is to apologize For the moments of bitterness Let it pass for you woman) Cuando te vea Fuiste mala mala y embustera Cuando te vea Mañana por la mañana Cuando te vea Te fuiste de mi vida mujer bandolera Cuando te vea (When I see you You were bad bad and a liar When I see you Tomorrow morning When I see you You left my life, shoulder bag woman When I see you) Here is a message that conveys sympathy, regret, chastisement, and resentment all within the same musical mood. Wow. (Somebody please explain to me “mujer bandolera”) On “Agua Limpia Todo”, Water cleanses everything—even the tongue of the people. Something to remember in the age of Twitter. Very good music. Very gratifying listen. 4/5

What a fantastic, groovy, dancy album. I found myself swaying and jigglin' to the beat and tempo of the songs. What a great album that I'd have otherwise not listened to.

Really hard not to smile while listening to Señor Tito and his orchestra. Perfect for cooking or, really, anything. Favorite tracks: "Complicación", "Llego Mijan"

Havana great time 🕺🏻

First time listening: 12/12 songs liked Yooooooo. That's a groove. This is basically a more refined Perez Prado, with more grooves and more melody. I am all for big band, and definitely all for mambo. 4 songs saved

Never listened to a whole Tito Puente album. Really enjoyed listening to this, both by myself and with the family. Love the dance of the lead voices with the chorus and of course the layers of percussion is right up my alley. The "living stereo" mix sounds great and for its time is incredible. Favorite tracks: Llego Mijan and Mi Chiquita Quiere Bembe.

My soul is on fire with this slanderous mambo

So fun! Made me want to dance the Mambo in Havana in the 20s. Even though it’s not my normal style of music, I enjoyed every song and would definitely listen again or even put this on during a dinner party.

This ain’t my first time at the Tito Puente rodeo! I had several of his albums in the past. Not sure if this was one of them as I am always up for some mambo. Turns out this was just the way to get my day started with a big smile… I’m thrilled this is on the list! Anyone who doesn’t find their hips moving when they listen to this should be examined by a professional. I love this era and style of music and Tito Puente is the crème de la crème.

I cannot imagine a record doing what this record does, but better. Reminded me of loaded club scenes in modernist classics - again, thinking of Antonioni here. Four stars

This immediately transported me to years and years of Mexican markets, restaurants and taquerias, from adolescence through to my adulthood. I can vividly see, hear, smell, and taste the specific food, colors, decor, and ambiance that is associated with so many places like this. It's always a good sign when you can connect to the music on a level that transports you somewhere else! If you are splitting hairs, this is more "Cuban" than "Mexican", but that doesn't stop it from being perfect and timeless in any Latin setting. Classic mambo albums and artists like Tito Puente are staples in these settings, and for good reason. It's fun to listen to, it's joyful, it's passionate, and it's exciting while also still being perfectly accessible for relaxing (again, in my case, almost always dining or shopping -- these can be forms of relaxing!). A real joy to listen to!

I'm sure it was an awesome latin dance fest in the 70s, but before my time and hard to get into without that experience. Now bring on Scooter!!! Lol

First song was enjoyable then it descended into 45mins of the exact same song!

Didn’t listen

Esta es fuego! Excelente!

This and Atomic Basie in the same year, what a time to be alive Best Song: El Cayuco Worst Song: N/A

A joyous departure from what I've been listening to. Compels me to get up and dance even though I don't know how. Not sure how to rate this. I liked it but probably won't listen again. Unless I'm throwing a Latin-themed dinner party.

Just noticed that I rated the last five albums either a one or five. Such an extremist! Well this album will be neither. I quite like Cuban music. This is Cuban right? Wiki notes that Tito is an American musician. Who am I to question but let’s just say that when Gordon Gano sang “Do you like American music” I highly doubt he meant Mambo. This is soft Cuban music and during the first few songs it’s impossible not get the hips swerving. The Xylophone was also kinda neat and they respected the unwritten rule that says only one Xylophone song per album. This is quite good and well recorded for the 50s but I think some of the Cubans who followed the American had more to offer.

Over two hours of great Mambo music. The whole thing has me wanting to shake my hips. It showcases a fantastic display of afro-cuban style percussion and brass. No one song in particular really stands out above the rest for me, perhaps because of my limited exposure and knowledge of this kind of music, but its a definite album I would play while cooking or just enjoying life.

I don’t think I’d ever get deeply into it, but I could see this keeping my spirits up while cleaning or something.

Oh, here's another world music box ticking one. I don't mind a bit of Tito, but these all sound very similar when on an album - and after 5 or 6 I've lost interest

Mambo Latin dance music with songs that all sound pretty similar and made to dance to. I can see this as being a very good example of the genre, it’s just not my thing at all.

Great as background party music but I can't remember anything at all from it. All the tracks blur into one. This isn't music to listen to, just to dance - which is fine, but I don't dance so that's no use to me, I'll take Samba Pa Ti instead, please. Mind you, it gave me a happy 5 minutes watching Jane dance to it in the kitchen.

What a nice uplifting album. Very sweet.

Classic. Eternal. Dance. Move!

I have a soft spot for the Mambo King.

Classic mambo jazz!!

🪇🪇🪇🪇🪇

"Dance Mania Vol. 1"is a studio album by American musician, songwriter, bandleader, timbalero and record producer Tito Puente. The genre is mambo from the king of mambo. The album was produced by Mickey Crofford. Puente played timbales, vibraphone and marimba. His band included seven trumpters, four saxophonists, three vocalists, two congueros, a bongosero, a pianist and a bassist. This album was Puente's best selling album. It also marked the debut of vocalist Santitos Colón. In 2002, it was inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress for its artistic significance. "El Cayuco" begins the party. It's a son montuno written by Puente. Loud, multiple horns in complex arrangements. A Latin beat. There's a piano solo. A vocal chorus led by the wonderful tenor voice of Colón. "3-D Mambo" is a mambo-jazz instrumental. Horns and the piano again. The beat led by Puente on the timbales. In "Hong Kong Mambo," Puente leads the band and the beat on the marimba. Trumpet blast and a marimba jam. The band covers the 1927 song "Varsity Drag" and turns it into another mambo-jazz instrumental. More layered horns and a piano solo. "Estoy Siempre Junto a Ti" changes the vibe a bit in a romantic bolero. Sultry horns. A slower beat. Colón as the singular vocalist. This time Puente struts his stuff on vibraphone. This was a lot of fun: the onslaught of multiple horns and complex arrangements, Latin beats, Punte's expertise on the timbales, vibraphone and marimba and the incredible vocals of Santitos Colón. It's never boring with short songs. I found it fascinating just listening to the Latin beats and instrumentation. I'm a novice in this style of music but enjoyed learning the different styles...mambo, son montuno, bolero, guaguanco, guaracha and cha cha cha Bembé. I can't imagine anyone not enjoying this music to some extent. Wait a minute, I just have to think back a few days ago...there may be a few.

How to charm me... Latin jazz, big band Mambo, spicy Salsa (the dance), and this album all day long. With an > 2 hour playtime, I wasn't kidding about all day long but Tito fkn Puente pulls it off. Legend.

unbelieve jeff

I don't know if this is the archetypical example of mambo or even Tito Puente's best album, but my god! It's fantastic. The musicianship here is flawless. I love the interplay of the chorus in the back with the alto belting in a delightful call and response that makes you feel like you're in the middle of something special. And that solo trumpet! When people talk about a "golden tone" this is exactly what they're talking about.

such a fun album. it really is a dance party from front to back. every song is danceable and catchy and you can definitely feel the joy involved in the music making. I had heard of Tito puente before listening to this, but I don't know if I had ever actually listened to any of his music, but I can definitively say this was one of my favorite surprises I've encountered in this entire project. classic fun, front to back.

A wildly fun and entertaining listen. I'm amazed how mambo can sound so similar from song to song, yet convey such distinct emotions. Songs for dancing, reflecting, and everything in between make this such a fun album to get lost in. Would love to go to a club and hear it performed live. Top tracks: Hong Kong Mambo, Mambo Gozon, Agua Limpia Todo

Really liked this one!

Wonderful.

Really hard not to smile while listening to Señor Tito and his orchestra. Perfect for cooking or, really, anything.

**Tito Puente's "Dance Mania": An In-Depth Review** **Introduction** Tito Puente's *Dance Mania*, released in 1958, is a landmark album in Latin music history, often regarded as one of the most influential mambo records ever produced. It captures the essence of the vibrant, energetic dance scene of the time and showcases Puente's virtuosic talent as a bandleader, arranger, and percussionist. This review will delve into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and overall influence, providing a comprehensive analysis of its strengths and weaknesses. --- ### Music and Arrangements The core strength of *Dance Mania* lies in its music and arrangements. Tito Puente, often dubbed "El Rey del Timbal," was a master of Afro-Cuban rhythms and big band arrangements, blending jazz sensibilities with the infectious grooves of Latin dance music. **Rhythmic Foundation:** The album is built on a foundation of complex Afro-Cuban rhythms, primarily the mambo, cha-cha-cha, and son montuno. These styles are characterized by syncopated rhythms, intricate percussion patterns, and a strong emphasis on the clave—a rhythmic pattern central to Afro-Cuban music. Tracks like "El Cayuco" and "Complicación" exemplify Puente's ability to create dynamic, rhythmically dense music that is both danceable and musically sophisticated. The interplay between the percussion (timbales, congas, bongos) and the brass section is particularly noteworthy, creating a driving, energetic sound that propels the album forward. **Brass and Woodwind Arrangements:** The horn arrangements are a standout feature of the album. Puente’s use of sharp, punchy brass lines and fluid, melodic woodwind passages gives the music a vibrant, exuberant quality. The horns not only serve as the primary melodic force but also contribute to the album's rhythmic drive, often playing syncopated lines that interlock with the percussion. For instance, in "Hong Kong Mambo," the brass section delivers a memorable, catchy melody that is both rhythmically complex and melodically appealing. **Melodic Content:** While the album is primarily instrumental, the melodies are engaging and memorable. Puente's compositions, such as "3-D Mambo" and "Agua Limpia Todo," feature strong, singable melodies that are complemented by the rhythmic intensity of the arrangements. The use of call-and-response patterns, a hallmark of Afro-Cuban music, is evident throughout the album, adding to its dynamic and interactive quality. **Pros:** - **Rhythmic Complexity:** The album excels in its use of intricate Afro-Cuban rhythms, which are both challenging and engaging for listeners. - **Brass and Percussion Interplay:** The synergy between the brass section and percussion is a highlight, showcasing Puente’s skill in arrangement and orchestration. - **Danceability:** Despite its musical sophistication, the album remains highly danceable, capturing the essence of Latin dance music. **Cons:** - **Repetitiveness:** Some tracks, while rhythmically complex, can feel repetitive in their melodic and harmonic content, which may diminish the listening experience for some audiences. ### Lyrics and Vocals While *Dance Mania* is predominantly an instrumental album, it does feature vocals on a few tracks, most notably in "Complicación" and "Cuando Te Vea." **Lyrical Themes:** The lyrics, though sparse, reflect the themes common in Afro-Cuban and Latin music—celebrations of love, life, and the joy of dancing. "Complicación," for example, features lyrics that speak to the complications of love, delivered with a sense of humor and light-heartedness. The lyrics are often simple and direct, serving more as a vehicle for the rhythm and melody rather than as a primary focus. **Vocal Performance:** The vocal performances are spirited and dynamic, matching the energy of the music. The singers deliver their lines with a rhythmic precision that complements the intricate percussion and brass arrangements. In tracks like "Cuando Te Vea," the vocals add an additional layer of melody and rhythm, enhancing the overall texture of the music. **Pros:** - **Vocal Rhythm:** The integration of vocals adds an additional rhythmic element that enhances the danceable quality of the music. - **Cultural Authenticity:** The lyrics, though simple, are deeply rooted in the cultural and musical traditions of Afro-Cuban music, adding to the album's authenticity. **Cons:** - **Lack of Lyrical Depth:** The simplicity of the lyrics may be seen as a drawback for listeners seeking more substantive lyrical content. ### Production *Dance Mania* was recorded and produced during an era when the recording technology was quite different from today’s standards. However, the production quality of the album is notable for its clarity and balance, especially considering the complexity of the arrangements and the number of instruments involved. **Sound Quality:** The sound quality of *Dance Mania* is remarkably clear, with each instrument well-defined in the mix. The percussion, which is central to the album's sound, is particularly well-captured, allowing the intricate rhythms to be heard with precision. The brass and woodwind sections are bright and punchy, cutting through the mix without overpowering the other elements. **Balance and Clarity:** One of the strengths of the production is the balance between the different sections of the orchestra. The arrangements are complex, with multiple layers of rhythm and melody happening simultaneously, but the production ensures that each element is audible and distinct. This balance is crucial in maintaining the energy and drive of the music, allowing the listener to appreciate the interplay between the different instruments. **Recording Techniques:** Given the era, the recording techniques were likely straightforward, relying on live recording with minimal overdubs. This approach captures the spontaneity and energy of the performances, giving the album a live, vibrant feel. The natural reverb and room acoustics add to the sense of space and dynamism, making the listener feel as though they are in the room with the band. **Pros:** - **Clarity and Definition:** The production ensures that the complex arrangements are clear and well-balanced, allowing the listener to appreciate the intricacies of the music. - **Live Energy:** The live recording approach captures the spontaneity and energy of the performances, contributing to the album’s vibrant feel. **Cons:** - **Limited by Technology:** The production is limited by the technology of the time, which, while impressive for its era, may lack the depth and fidelity that modern recordings offer. ### Themes and Cultural Significance *Dance Mania* is more than just a collection of dance tracks; it is a cultural artifact that captures the zeitgeist of the late 1950s Latin dance scene in New York City. **Dance and Celebration:** The overarching theme of the album is celebration—of life, love, and, most importantly, dance. The music is designed to get people moving, reflecting the centrality of dance in Latin culture. The album’s infectious energy and rhythmic drive embody the joy and exuberance of the dance floor, making it a timeless expression of the human desire to move and celebrate. **Cultural Representation:** The album is a celebration of Afro-Cuban music and its influence on Latin jazz and popular music in the United States. By blending traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms with the big band jazz format, Puente created a sound that was both authentic and innovative. The album represents a fusion of cultures, reflecting the melting pot that was New York City at the time. It also served as a bridge between Latin and American popular music, influencing countless musicians and helping to bring Latin music to a wider audience. **Influence and Legacy:** *Dance Mania* had a profound impact on the development of Latin music in the United States and beyond. It helped to popularize the mambo and cha-cha-cha, influencing the music of the 1960s and beyond. The album’s influence can be seen in the work of later Latin jazz artists, as well as in the broader popular music landscape, where the rhythms and styles pioneered by Puente have been incorporated into various genres. **Pros:** - **Cultural Significance:** The album is a significant cultural artifact, representing the fusion of Afro-Cuban music with American jazz and popular music. - **Timeless Themes:** The themes of dance and celebration are universal, making the album accessible and enjoyable for listeners across generations. **Cons:** - **Niche Appeal:** The album’s focus on Latin dance music may limit its appeal to listeners who are not familiar with or interested in the genre. ### Influence on the Music Industry and Popular Culture **Expansion of Latin Music:** *Dance Mania* played a crucial role in expanding the reach of Latin music beyond its traditional audience. By achieving mainstream success, the album brought Afro-Cuban rhythms and Latin dance music into the broader popular music landscape. This helped to pave the way for future Latin artists and genres, contributing to the diversity of the music industry. **Impact on Jazz and Popular Music:** The album’s influence extended beyond the Latin music scene, impacting jazz and popular music as well. The integration of complex rhythms and the emphasis on danceability influenced jazz musicians and composers, encouraging them to explore new rhythmic and melodic possibilities. Additionally, the album’s success helped to establish Latin jazz as a legitimate and respected genre within the broader jazz community. **Inspiration for Future Artists:** Many Latin music and jazz artists have cited *Dance Mania* as an inspiration. The album’s innovative fusion of styles and its success in crossing cultural and musical boundaries have made it a touchstone for musicians seeking to blend different musical traditions. Artists like Carlos Santana, who incorporated Latin rhythms into rock music, and contemporary Latin jazz musicians have drawn inspiration from Puente’s work on this album. **Pros:** - **Industry Impact:** The album helped to expand the reach of Latin music and contributed to the growth of the Latin jazz genre. - **Inspiration for Artists:** *Dance Mania* continues to inspire musicians, demonstrating its enduring influence and relevance. **Cons:** - **Genre Boundaries:** While influential, the album’s impact was primarily within the Latin and jazz communities, with limited crossover into mainstream popular music. ### Pros and Cons Summary **Pros:** 1. **Musical Excellence:** Complex rhythms, masterful arrangements, and engaging melodies. 2. **Production Quality:** Clear, balanced sound that captures the live energy of the performances. 3. **Cultural Significance:** A key artifact in the history of Latin music, representing the fusion of Afro-Cuban and American jazz traditions. 4. **Danceability:** Infectious rhythms that make the album a timeless soundtrack for dancing. 5. **Influence:** Paved the way for future Latin artists and influenced jazz and popular music. **Cons:** 1. **Repetitiveness:** Some tracks may feel repetitive in their melodic and rhythmic content. 2. **Lack of Lyrical Depth:** The album’s focus is on rhythm and dance, with less emphasis on lyrical content. 3. **Niche Appeal:** The genre focus may limit the album’s appeal to a broader audience. 4. **Technological Limitations:** The production, while excellent for its time, may not meet the sonic expectations of modern listeners. ### Conclusion Tito Puente’s *Dance Mania* is a seminal album that captures the spirit of Latin dance music in the late 1950s. Its masterful blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms, jazz influences, and vibrant arrangements make it a standout in Puente’s discography and a landmark in Latin music history. While the album may have some limitations, particularly in terms of lyrical content and genre appeal, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. *Dance Mania* remains a vital, influential work that continues to inspire and move listeners more than six decades after its release. Its legacy as a cornerstone of Latin music and its impact on the broader music industry are undeniable, making it an essential listen for anyone interested in the history and evolution of popular music.

Really great album. Great mambo music. Literally the epitome of the genre. When I think mambo, I think Tito Puentes. 5/5!

I really enjoyed listening to this one. Makes me want to travel and dance!

I love this! So exuberant!!

Loved it. Never had an album like this, but it was fun listening.

Nowhere near what I usually listen to. It was a great listen

LATINO NATION REPRESENTANDO PLO PLO PLO

Tito Puente had me searching those basic salsa steps on YouTube, que plenones se aventó el Tio Tito. Una de esas joyitas que tu abuela seguro tiene guardada en un vinilo sucio y rayado. Amo la salsa y amo latinoamerica. 10/10.

New Tito Puente album for me, but have been a big fan of his music since a friend introduced me ~5 years ago. Such an electric energy throughout every song, and I love the presence of the percussion and the sharpness of the horns. Banger

This album was so great. I was moving my shoulders and swaying back and forth at my desk from start to finish. I couldn't conjure up any insightful comments about specific tracks, it all blended into some very enjoyable background music right from the beginning. This feels like an album I'd put on at my house when I host people. I kept feeling like I was in one of the yellow/sepia-filter scenes in Breaking Bad. That reflects more on my limited exposure to latin music than anything else. I would like to listen to more, and I'll definitely listen to this album again. In fact, I'm listening to it again as I write this on our next day of music. 9/10

Never heard this album before but I absolutely loved it.

I was introduced to Tito Puente by the game Grand Theft Auto : Vice City. Every yellow cab in the Little Havana district would be playing Radio Espantoso and it’s impossible not to enjoy the infectious rhythms. This album is a good introduction to Señor Puente and my particular favourite is Mambo Gozon, but to be honest they’re all good songs, Brent.

Pure gold

This is just plain fun, and anybody who is going to be a snob about not liking it is not worth having in your life.

What's not to love? From the bold red cover to the endless energy inside. Five stars!

This is seriously the most fun I've ever had listening to an album before. Fuck pop, fuck trap, fuck playing anything at the club that isn't this. I want down a pitcher of Margs and dance to this with a live orchestra. Despite being a dance album, there is a really impressive amount of variety on this too for what it is. Bring back really talented musicians making dance music.

he rules

Liked this!

Great stuff.

Classic and perfect Mambo album, hard not to dance to and fun all the way through

This is my jam.

Loved this. Mambo!

Wonderful example of late 50s/early 60s Latin dance hall music. With clever use of dynamics and key changes, it keeps you engaged without wearing you out. Great dinner party music.

I'm a huge fan of Tito Puente so I'm always happy to hear his music. I really enjoyed this album, again.

Good fun! Always great to get a break from the usual here and for it be good. Also, a good example of how tracks can sound similar across an album but not exhaustive.

yesssssss

lo linda que es esta música por dioo😭 10/10

5/5 First time I listened to a mambo album, really appreciated the instrumental tracks.

Nothing better than a cha-cha

YES yes yes, love this!

Loved this.

Tropico! Listened to when running a few days as well

Maybe todays weather biased me, but I’m giving this a five. This was awesome. It was so evocative of a particular place in both space and time (at least for someone who was never in NYC in the 50s) and feels perfectly executed. The horns were wonderful and the piano sounded great throughout. Would be fun to go out dancing to this.

amazing

If I ever want just like mario music in the background - this is the album.

Just an album of masterful musicianship. Superb and unique vocals with a complete command of the instrumentation. Super fun album and high energy from start to finish. 10/10.

This is exception in every way I care to think about. Excellent performances, superb composition, great recording and, as then name would suggest, highly danceable.

Easy five stars. Amazing Salsa. Love it.

The music is so good. Santitos Colon has such a great voice . I loved the marimba solo on Hong Kong Mambo.

Hell yeah so great, this has gotta be the tightest band in the world. I love the arrangements and I love the warmth on all of the horns, such an amazing sounding record.

Wow. The best use for a trumpet. I could listen to this on repeat all day.

Beautiful album, I listened to it again when I got home, and it sounded even better.

I want to put on a white dinner jacket & salsa all day, listening to Tito! What great rhythm, you can hear his influence on Santana here This album started my day on a positive note

Really enjoyable; infectious even.

Love that vibes

Not my thing but undeniably great.

If I had to pick one genre of music to listen to for the rest of my life it would be something like this. I could rant about the under-representation of Latin music on this list compared 70s rock but we're only 2.8% of the way in so happy to give the benefit of the doubt!!

basic brunch music in a good way

Impossible to dislike. Putting this album on here is like cheating. Absolutely fantastic mambo music. What else is there to say? This is amazing no matter what mood you're in.

I’m a sucker for Latin Jazz/Mambo/Samba stuff. This record really scratches that itch. It’s fun and gratifying to listen to. Cool record, literally no complaints. 5/5.

Not a lot of variety track to track but groove density is off the charts.

Of course I love it. Usually with world music I’m willing to be lenient with some production weirdness, but this whole album is super tight. The percussion is especially wonderful.

i mean, what else could you want? this is excellent.

LOVE Dancing in the kitchen vibes

Well now I'm likely going to go on a Tito Puente kick. I'm sure my husband will appreciate it.

Tito Puente. Wow! If this doesn’t get it going for you, you are dead . Mercy

Que bendición este álbum!!!

It was a fuckin’ party in my car this morning at 6am with this playing, let me tell you. I have been digging this style of music lately and it’s like the algorithm read my mind.

Now we're talking! Mambo from this time period always evokes cool dudes in white linen suits driving around Miami in their convertibles, before taking on some sort of "Oceans 11" type caper. You don't get better than Tito - still as danceable today as it was 60 years ago...

Salsaaaaaaaaaa

Very good, felt slightly formulaic based on other stuff I’ve listened too but based on historical context it’s clear that this album helped establish the formula. Will definitely listen to again and I may grab some Latin music for the vinyl collection.

ohhhhh yeah baby let's go tito puente was doing so much cool shit as a band leader in the year 1958. lawrence welk wasn't doing this shit i'm sorry he just wasn't. there was not an american market for dance mania in the time it came out, and the american market is so so dumb for not wanting this record. there are very few albums that make me actually want to get up and move, but this album makes me want to put a rose in my mouth and woo a woman with the language of dance again, with some of these albums, i'm like, "did i really need to hear this?" yes, i needed to hear dance mania by tito puente. this was a blind spot, but it never will be again, as i will remember these sweet grooves and wonderful orchestral arrangements for the rest of my life puente was a percussionist by trade before becoming a band leader, and you can absolutely tell. every single one of these songs has a really tight and individualistic groove, the non-drum percussive instruments (marimba, etc) add so much to the bottom layer of this arrangement, and oh my GOD the horns are so good in every single song music is supposed to make you feel stuff. a lot of the stuff i love evokes a strong emotion in me - love, sadness, longing. i love dance mania, because it inspires a great joy in my heart that i just cannot shake. it's cutting through this overcast seattle day and shining the sun into my soul, man. i get the fuck down with tito puente and his orchestra.