Reviews (page 6 of 9)
1 - I probably would’ve left it at the first song if I wasn’t doing this album, some tracks were okay but not enough for me to even remember which ones
Confession: I was anticipating just listen to a few songs and writing the review. Instead I listened to the album twice. There is just something fun about this album that made me think mojitos, fedoras and bowling shirts dancing badly on a beach. I am no bassanova officionado, but I enjoyed this album today. I think that is the sign of a good album: the elicitation of emotion, which this achieved successfully. Key songs were the famous El Cayuco and Llego Mijas! This one might find its way to vinyl for me should the opportunity arise
This was pretty good stuff. I know the name better than I knew the music. Didn't realize he was the OG mambo king. I'll probably pick listen to this again when I'm in the mood for something a little spicy.
I believe this is the only mambo album on the list. You'll hear Tito Puente's song Oye como va on Santana's album Abraxas, but otherwise he is representing Cuban music alongside Buena Vista Social Club and Sabu. Despite hailing from New York with Puerto Rican parents, Puente would champion an assortment of Latin music, though Cuba would take center stage as a result of the Rhumba craze starting in the '30s. Puente would utilize his Juilliard education to bring us "jazz with the Latin touch" Enter Dance Mania, a sophisticated record that respects its latin roots while giving it the flair of jazz for modern audiences (well, modern at the time). Tito Puente's orchestrations put particular value on the momentum of the groove, understanding the role it plays as dance music first and foremost. Few albums seem to impress the importance of its cultural roots as Dance Mania. A rousing success of a record.
i mean it was fine but it was just a bunch of non-offensive samba jazz music. if it did anything interesting melodically i’d be inclined to rate it higher but almost every song sounded the same so it gets 2 stars
3,5
Classic Afro Cuban
Fun listen. Good vibe. Sounds like the music from the beginning and end of office space.
Tanzmusik, Mambo, Salsa, Cha-Cha-Cha und was weiß ich. So ohne Bilder schwierig. Oye como va...
Fantastic, quintessential mambo. I do wish that there were some longer songs on the album, but it is still very good.
A delightful but not particularly varied output from a band I've absolutely never heard of. And there's very little in the way of uniqueness – hundreds of other bands have a near-identical sound to this, with even the overlaid seductive female vocal being an overdone element. Maybe the "trumpets and woodwind and bongos and Spanish chanting" wasn't ridiculously overdone in 1958, but it sure as heck is now. We can clearly see why the genre was successful, both in Latin America and worldwide, but I view it similarly to modern-day pop/country in that it's too derivative to have any chance of blowing my mind. But there were specific elements that appealed to me. The (male) singing is great, surpassing language barriers with its pure energy and drunken giddiness. It's a fun contrast to the female vocal, which is excellent and not overused. I'm pretty sure the only brass is trumpets, and the lower wind sound is from woodwind instruments. It creates a lighter, airier sound than a full-on brass band would. I enjoyed the two opening tracks (El Cayuco and Complicación) the most, simply because they were early enough that I hadn't started to notice the musical repetition yet. The top-rated reviewer commented that "you really get the feeling the Latin people are having way more fun than everybody else." (Well said.) 3/5 Key tracks: El Cayuco, Complicación, Mambo Gozon
This was an interesting change of pace from what I've been listening to recently. This isn't music that challenges you in any way, it's exactly what's described on the box - music to dance to. I found it interesting for a couple of songs then it al sort of blurred into one. My favourite was "Varsity Drag", not because of the music but for the title. It conjured up some amazing mental imagery. Oh how language has changed over the decades.
**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.
Todellista viidemusiikkia! Kyllä mun sydän sykkii näillekin rytmeille. Hämmentävää vaan että jokin mikä on julkaistu 92 voi kuulostaa näin saatanan 60-70 -luvun tuotteelta! : D Annetaan vahva kolmonen. Jos tää artisti tulee kirpparilla vastaan niin ostan välittömästi kyllä! 3/5
Ei vallannut mania kyllä sielua tässä. Kolmoseen yltänee kuitenkin, joskin täpärästi.
This was quite fun. I enjoyed it really. Latin jazz is something that I definitely wouldn't listen from my own initiative, so it was something different and interesting to listen.
Anything Latin is just so fun and enjoyable. You can't listen to this album and not want to move to it.
Really great album. Great mambo music. Literally the epitome of the genre. When I think mambo, I think Tito Puentes. 5/5!
Full of bangers. I loved this. Very fitting title.
Really fun! Made me wanna dance
Happy Mexican tunes
Not my thing. Each song sounds pretty similar.
Fun
Happy, fun, and lively, this album feels like it's straight out of the 1950's. I was surprised it was from '91! Really easy to listen to and short. Not one I would revisit, but it was fine for a one off.
Tito Puente is probably the artist most associated with and responsible for the sound of Latin jazz and dance music. Everyone knows "Oye Cómo Va." I don't know any of the songs on "Dance Mania," but it sounds nearly as iconic and classic.
Fun and high energy, but most of the songs sound very similar to me.
I definitely want to dance now.
It's pretty good for what it is
Pretty enjoyable for something I wouldn't normally listen to.
Hot rhythms, perfect for long dark evenings.
Mambo is not my go to genre but to be fair the album flowed well and reminded me. Of a Brazilian club I went to in London back in the day. No stand out tracks but I have no knowledge on mambo so hard to comment. Worth a listen, background party music.
There’s a time and a place for this genre. I quite enjoyed it, but I couldn’t tell you the difference between most songs. Luckily it’s nice, happy, upbeat music. I imagine it sounds ace in a bar in Cuba or a beach in Brazil.
A great album if you're holding a salsa event id think, not sure its an essential album to listen to. Stopped listening halfway and when I came back I had no idea where I'd got up to, this album is very much a 'sound' as opposed to trying to do anything specific with the tracks. All in all it was easy enough to get to but don't need to hear again.
I have a bit of a soft spot for this kind of music. Really evoked an atmosphere, and it sounds like the musicians had a real laugh making it. Standouts were El Cayuco and Mambo Gozon.
Yeah, why not. Never would've chosen to listen to anything like this without this list. Not sure I will again Don't dislike it, but never going to think, I'll just throw some dance mania on 2
It’s any movie or tv show when it's taking place in Latin America 2.67
Very tasty!
I think I listened to this this one across 1 full month. Not sure if I hit every song, since I kept forgetting where I was when I stopped the previous listening session, but oh, well. Maybe I liked it?
Another great Album from the fifties. It all starts sounding a bit the same after a while though
6/10 This was fine, fun, but felt very much like background music for a public space Good vibes, good tunes, love the horns. Loved the trumpets in particular Best: Varsity Drag
Cuban jazz feeds my soul like few other genres of music can. I almost forgot that until I put this album on today. Love the vibraphone on “Hong Kong Mambo”! Great album cover.
Being married to a puertorriqueña and having been to Puerto Rico several times in my life, I've heard a ton of Tito Puente and have enjoyed it every time. One of my best friends in college was a Peruvian musician who also was obsessed with Afro-Cuban / Afro-Peruvian / Latin music so I was surrounded by the sound via him as well. It's feel good music that makes your hips move, your lips smile, and your body feel warm. Standouts for me are "El Cayuco", "Hong Kong Mambo", and "Saca Tu Mujer".
se hai voglia di latineggiante non male
groovy album
1. Who knew Tito Puente was American? 2. He will always be known for his role on The Simpsons. "They robbed the school of Tito!" 3. It's not my jam.
Sure do have a lot of 50's latin jazz on this list...
p37. 1958. 2 stars Guaranteed to make any hip twitch. Well done of its kind, but not my thing. Unlikely to revisit.
Reminds me of when I lived in Colombia where the dance club across the street would blast this music as loud as their speakers could handle. My front door would shake
The peak of mambo from the master himself. Just a great all around record. Very enjoyable listen this morning.
Great album for dancing to, unfortunately it's not a good one for just listening through.
Never heard before. Sounds good, not something I feel knowledgeable to review though. "Mi chiquita quiere bembe"
Not my kind of things but it was ok
Fun listen while cooking. Who doesn't like Cha Cha and Salsa music? I'm vacillating between a 3 and 4. Four because it's enjoyable to dance to, 3 because some of the songs bring back memories of my grandma watching Lawrence Welk. It's a holiday, so I'm rounding up!
Good for a dance club, or as background for a dinner party. A little monotonous/bright to be something you listen directly to or while working. Did love the xylophone leads in Hong Kong Mamba. Danceable!
Would never listen to this normally, but thoroughly enjoyed it. Love those horns!
Fun and festive. Great dance party said vibes.
A lot of fun! Particularly liked "Hong Kong Mambo."
So much fun!
124/1001
Didn’t finish. Pretty fun but honestly would only listen to this again if it was playing in a Mexican restaurant.
I fucking love Latin music. This album is so groovy and fun to dance/vibe to!! Hell yeah! Would be a great one to have on vinyl. Nothing with a big Wow factor but like that doesn’t rly matter to me with this sort of music. Good shit
June 18 2025 'moa ver 1. El Cayuco. Wepa! Sabrosón, as salsa is. Hard to hate. 2. Complicación. Difícil apreciar algo más que sabrosura. Si es por mi gusto, me va a gustar todo el disco. 3. 3d Mambo. Todo sabroso, man. -Creo que solo anotaré lo que skippearía- Mi chiquita could be skipped, kinda. Hard not to like. 5 por being salsa, 3 to my likes. I'll give a 4.
I really enjoyed listening to this one. Makes me want to travel and dance!
Consistently good the whole way through
Good vibz. Simpsons: Oh yeah (guest star in Shot Mr Burns doesn’t get much bigger than that)
Good vibes but nothing special.
this is not for me. sounded like I was stuck in a salsa class.
can see its influence and lasting nature but not a personal favorite
if you're looking for mambo, this album is certainly... a mambo album! it's very joyful and very groovy, unsurprisingly it IS the kind of music that you'd put on if you're dancing with yourself or with your lover. can't say too much else about it other than it's well produced and performed. everybody mamboooooo!!
Hell yea for the bell solo on Hong Kong Mambo. Need more of that in my life. But after this album I think I have probably reached my brass quota for this quarter. Not at all a "bad" album. In fact for the right mood this might be really solid. Unfortunately I am not in that mood at the moment and was looking forward to this being done. I think erring towards objectivity, this sits at a 3. I recognize it is interesting and well done. It's just not hitting for me.
4 stars. Made me wish I could do some salsa dancing.
A nice lively jaunt to end the work day. Sounds damn good for being released in 1958. High 3.
What an incredible spicy way to start my Friday! While this did indeed make me want to break out into a Dance Mania, I feel like this could have been only like 20 minutes long. Got a bit old pretty quickly.
This was alright not my kinda music but nothing offensive. Kinda want to go 2 here just because every song sounded the exact same. But I’m not because I’m a coward and it was ok
Cha, cha, cha baila music. Dance Mania is trumpet heavy salsa throughout. Best number is (xylophone) Hong Kong Mambo because there’s no trumpet and it’s different from the other songs. Enjoyed the listen during an elliptical session, album comes in at (2.2*s)
This album is groovy but all the songs are very similar. It would be great while cooking arepas or sitting in a taqueria but didn't make me want to jump up and dance. It's an enjoyable listen, very upbeat, passionate, a bit slanderous. In terms of Latin music, this is a more accessible and fun album but mambo isn't really for me. I can say, it is well recorded and has a great vibe for coming out in the 50's. Though, I feel like this was just ticking the "World Music" box for the list.
Didn't feel the mania or much like dancing. Same song on repeat for 95% of the album. Maybe this makes the list for being an early Spanish group making it to mainstream? Not for me...one time listen...adios amigos. 1.2
It's fine background music I guess. I'm not that into mambo and I'm never really going to take it seriously unless I'm in a foreign country looking to dance. It's fine for a single listen but nothing I'll come back to. Every song sounds pretty similar regardless of who is involved. I've heard of Tito Puente as likely the most famous mambo artist but I'm not really sure what he does to differentiate himself. 1.40 stars
Can't beat this album if you want to mambo. Wall to wall classics.
I enjoyed this one. Great listen.
Mexican hotel lobby music
Only partly listened, not for me
Dance Mania is a studio album by American musician Tito Puente, originally released in 1958. Right off the bat, the sound quality on this is fantastic for 1958! Stereo separation is solid as well. This is a pretty typical mambo record. Upbeat feeling with lots of percussion. The performances are solid. The vocals are fun as well. Where I think this record falls behind is it being with an orchestra, particularly the horn section. It does feel a bit overproduced at times and hovers around the easy listening vibe a bit too much for me. I want this to sound like I just stumbled into a Cuban bar, not a concert hall full of rich folks. Still really good though.
Massively good fun. Is it a great album. Yeah probably.
its ok NNN
i love dance mania
So so
not for me but at least a three
Great album! Listened to it while driving with the top down, perfect for a beautiful day. Upbeat!!
Fun listen. But I have to be in the right mood to listen to it. Still, it does belong in the book.
Nice.
Trying to be a little more selective with my 4*s from now on, so while this is good I don’t think it really stands out that much, so I will give it a 3. Enjoyable listen though.
I love this! So exuberant!!
Fun! Killer drum solos, xylophone steel drum big Latin band sound, general percussion. hard to stay still. turned me onto this whole Latin big band sound.
Not something I would put on but not something I'll turn off.
I like this but I can only take so much.
I didn't need a full album of this. One or two songs and you get the idea.
It seems happy, so that's good. But I never connected with anything here and will never play it again.
Wasn't bad, wasn't particularly exceptional. I just don't like mambo. I appreciate the musicality and I hate to generalize, but they all sound the same.
It’s just an awesome vibe.
So fun. Reminds me of margaritas and hangovers.
Legendary. Love the instrumentation.
Loved it. Never had an album like this, but it was fun listening.
This is fun and unexpected! I'm surprised this is from the early 90s. I thought this would be the '60s era. But I like the Spanish Big-Band percussions.
Nowhere near what I usually listen to. It was a great listen
I mean, I guess it's fine or whatever.
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.
Originally i thought this was just Cuban music I neither understood, liked or sounded anything different from anything else I'd heard. Yes, mainly this was the case. But there were jazz and progressive influences in there and - whilst mainly way too up beat for me - it held my interest. I'm assuming it was expertly played.
This put a spring in my step during my 6am dog walk.
Redundant.
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.
Fun and bouyant boppable tracks. Fave: El Cayuco I guess as it kicks everything off.
Great fun! Would pair nicely with sunshine and rum, but still a blast on an overcast day tippy-tapping away at a keyboard. Fave track - "Cuando te Vea" sounds a little like the theme song to "Narcos", but really this album isn't about individual tracks - it's the _vibe_. 😎
Probably great if you’re doing mambo and whatnot.
Very enjoyable and upbeat
Staple äåni... liekö liian tuttua omaherkuksi.. kuitrnkin muistetaan objektia ohjaaa..
Favorite Tracks: Llego Mijan (Son Montuno) Three D Mambo Mi Chiquita Quiere Bembé
Really easy to listen to but almost to the point of hearing it all blend into one big experience. Maybe it's because of the language barrier but this feels more like a mood to me than anything else. Good playing and singing for the genre.
Some good stereo mixing. Great music for a sunny day or to bring some sun into your day. This album will probably come back for Sunday morning coffee here and there.
Too bad I was nestled in bed listening to this or I would have been moving my legs and hips with the expression of that lady on the cover. Dance mania, indeed. Favorites: Three D Mambo, Llego Mijan (Son Montuno), Cuando Te Vea (Guaguanco), Hong Kong Mambo, Mambo Gozon, Varsity Drag.
1. el cayuco - 2 2. complicacion - 1.5 3. three mambo - 1 4. llego mijan - 1.5 5. cuando te vea - 1.5 6. hong kong - 1 7. mambo gozon - 1.5 8. quiere bembe - 1.5 9. varzity drag - 1 10. junto a ti - 2 11. limpia todo - 1.5 12. tu mujer - 1
maybe I didn't listen attentively enough, but to me it was quite boring and repetitive – and did not compel me to listen more closely. nothing against instrumental songs in general tho, it's just this album. I can see it working much better as background music somewhere than something to actually dance to
Latin jazz, kinda blended all together
I listened on my phone speaker while working, so it wasn't a close listen. I was definitely moving my hips more than usual and had fun the whole time. It's not a style I'm well versed in, but it was pretty undeniably a good time. Album Cover: B
I’m a big lyrics guy so not being able to understand the lyrics is definitely a hit for me. Overall decent but all sounded the same (probably because I couldn’t understand the words) and got bored and didn’t finish. One thing I’m noticing is that my mood and setting really changes how I feel about the album. I’m going to start including them in the reviews for further context. For instance, if I was in Puerto Rico at a bar with everyone dancing this might be a 5, however it was: Mood: annoyed Setting: at my desk at work
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
I killed a spider while listening to this album and it gave me the courage to stomp on it. Needless to say, it was a good album.
Thought I’d enjoy it more than I did.
Never heard this album before but I absolutely loved it.
Fun samba but a little samey.
Kinda samey but it does have a fun vibe and I really like the marimba in the back of the songs. Fav tracks: Three D Mambo, Hong Kong Mambo, Sacar Tu Mujer
“The music at El Troquero isn’t heat it isn’t heat 🤓” The music: This album’s is pretty wicked and even though it’s in spanish
best song: cuando te vea
I found it somewhat enjoyable, but also a bit outside my familiarity. I might need to give Mambo a bit more of a listen in general.
pa estar full chilling d locos
mambo! 4/7
The purpose of this chart I think is to ensure every genre is included and the best from each of those. As such it's a pleasure to listen to something that was around a long time ago within it's distinct bubble. I'm not sure if it influenced any music nowadays but it's very good at what it is - produced and played.
Fun fun fun. Much more enjoyable to listen to than lots of other albums on here. But I really want some chips and salsa now.
Okay a couple things: 1. It is interesting to hear the music that Carlos Santana was so obviously influenced by. I thought half of the songs were actually the original version of oye Como va. 2. What he does on this album he does amazingly well. But he really doesn't stray far from his original formula. 3. This really makes me want to have an outdoor party with grilled shrimp and rum drinks.
Fun. Makes me want to have a big cocktail party where people spill their drinks and ladies slap men for being fresh.
Purely historical reasons - and the respect I know is due to this giant of Latin music, Tito Puente - lead me to give this album 3 stars. But let me be very clear: Latin music just isn’t my thing! Or rather, bossa nova, MPB, and fusion tango - like that of the Gotan Project or Bajofondo - are fine; as for the rest, it’s just not my cup of tea.
3.0 Crazy how tight the band is. Enjoyable listen but I wont get familiar enough with it to say one song is better than another.
Ну не. Типа я понимаю, что это самба или румба или что-то типа того. Танцевальная ритмичная веселенькая музыка. Но мне не заходит, это пусть клан сопрано под это танцует и урчит. Дайте мне что-то другое
I can appreciate that this is considered a classic of Latin music, and Tito Puente’s reputation speaks for itself. The musicianship is tight, the rhythms are energetic and you can absolutely hear why this would have packed dance floors in the late 50s. It just is not for me. Across a full listen, I found it repetitive and struggled to stay engaged. The percussion is impressive and relentless, but without much variation in mood or structure it started to blur together. I can admire the technical skill and cultural importance, but personally it did not connect. I am sure in the right setting, maybe live or in a social environment, this music would come alive. As an album to sit and listen to from start to finish, it did not hold my attention.
Joyful. I had no idea what was being sung about but you just can't stand still. Brilliant rhythms and fun. Lovely album.
Not my thing, definitely can't listen to 2+ hours of it
I tried, but Latin American dance music doesn't suit me. I do listen to a bit of Argentinian tango from time to time. I'm particularly a fan of the Gotan Project. As I don't dance the mambo, I find it a bit tiring in the long run. 2/5
Not my kind of thing but brilliant fun!
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.
Latino music in general is not really my cup of tea, and I'm apparently not a fan of mambo. The record is saved by a great brass section and some jazzy bits that are pretty nice.
While the music is played technically excellent, 38 minutes of Mambo are quite a lot …
Enjoyed it, and yes it made me wanna dance!
Dance Mania is a blast. The infectious energy and top-tier musicianship make it a high-spirited classic. While the dance-focused arrangements can get repetitive during focused listening, the vibrant production, especially the vibraphone, and the balance of upbeat rhythms with surprising lyrical depth make it a joy to listen to.
I really wish I knew what they were saying because the music was beautiful, lovely Spanish tunes with a god given voice. They all did kinda sound the same though, probably because I don’t know the lyrics but it was still good 3.9/5 Favorite: all of them
Fun album
Legend. I could listen to this all day.
This and Atomic Basie in the same year, what a time to be alive Best Song: El Cayuco Worst Song: N/A
It's my cue to slip into a bikini, pop a straw into a coconut, and soak up the sunshine 😎 P.S. I heard mañana hehe
I've never really listened to this kind of music, so I can't really pass comment on it. There's not much of a Mambo scene in Newfoundland. Plus, I don't have a clue what anybody is saying (they all sing in Spanish). That being said, these are feel good tunes. It's uplifting music. 👍👍
3.5
Some nice tunes
Not a huge fan of Latin music, it's good but doesn't really work for me
Big Band mit lateinamerikanischen Klängen. Mambo, Salsa und Limbo. Ganz nett für den Retro-Latino Abend in der Tanzschule aber nichts zur Wiederören.
3/5. An upbeat and danceable album (aptly named). Although I'm not going manic over it, it was still enjoyable. Steady and solid instrumentation and if I knew how to dance at all, this might be more up my speed but I'm a swayer so don't got much to offer to the scene lol. Enjoyable nontheless, not my cup of tea totally.
Dance Mania is lively and fun and basically impossible not to want to dance to, you kind of expect that from Mambo anyway, and I'm not clued up enough to know whether this is truly a good example of the gentre except that it's on this list (not a given) and Tito Puente is a household name (probably makes it good). Better than a 2 but not good enough for a 4, but I have previous for Simpsons references giving the score a boost so an easy 3.
I liked this more than most of the similar stuff we've had - the vocals are clear enough that I can actually understand most of it, which helps, and it's relentlessly upbeat and jolly. That makes it a little bit more than the background music that we've had in the past, but it's still not enough for me that I'd actively want Vol. 2 to be on this list. A nice, pleasant listen, but probably not one that I'll return to, so a middling 3.
Dancy Cuban music
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.
I liked this a fair bit! It was definitely something different from what I'm used to, but I enjoy exploring new genres of music. Will be grabbing this record if I see it in stores :)
Actually a fun album
So alive and full and precise
Feels like I'm playing as an extra in Tropico. A groovy album that made me feel like I was sitting in a hot and sweaty bar in Cuba.
The crowd goes mild
These songs are so familiar sounding, but maybe thats because Mambo sounds pretty samey to me as a genre. I do enjoy some of the horn work, and it was a nice breezey listen, though I dont know if I'll come back. My favorite was probably Cuando Te Vea.
I have little idea how to rate this. It's not bad, so I'll give it 3 stars, but I have no idea how it compared to the music of the time that was available to the target audience. I enjoy the sound, but the songs largely sound the same, and I suspect I could find a number of other songs like them. Good, but unless it was far ahead of its time, not great. 3 stars.
Refreshingly different style than most of the pop-rock-electro-jazzy albums we have on this list. I don't know much about mambo but it was a very fun album to listen to, and the musicians on it are absolutely fantastic. Great album.
What's not to love? From the bold red cover to the endless energy inside. Five stars!
I think this type of music can be really refreshing to put on, and get a break from the regular pop, rock, electronic music and so on. I think it injects some really happy and light mood, which certainly can be very nice sometimes. The problem for me is that it is very hard to rate music that I don't know very well, and this album falls under that category. The same usually goes for jazz, orchestral, and some other select genres. I liked this album, but in my mind it wouldn't compete against other 4 or 5 star rated albums of what I would consider "good music". So I guess it'll have to be a solid 3 star rating then, even though it may deserve more.
A breath of fresh air as this was something very different from what you usually find here. I enjoyed it as background music but I'm not sure I enjoyed it more than that. Felt like nice music to listen to while drinking a few margaritas or dancing. I really preferred the songs with the female vocals, as such my favourite song was "Cuando Te Vera" which stood out from the rest.
Aaaah c’est bon ça
An ok album
nice og sødt latin album, det kunne jeg godt lide. godt at kende til noget middag :))
Too bad I was in the car and could not dance!
Im not sure how to rank these types, like it’s good music, objectively good, it’s just not my speed
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
Irrelevant.
Not too bad. Can’t imagine I’ll listen again but it’s good for what it is
Fuego! Mucho fuego! 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Not a fan of this at all
outside of my normal wheelhouse, but its happy and upbeat music
This was an enjoyable album. It makes me want to learn to salsa dance. Not much else to say
As the Allmusic review points out, *Dance Mania*, Tito Puente's best-known and best-selling album, "came ten years into his career, but at a time (1958) when the craze for mambo and Latin music was beginning to crest". This mostly explains why this album would be in Dimery's list, but I guess another reason is the tight, explosive-and-yet-glossy big band *sound* of this release, clearly transcending such son cubano / son moteno style into an offering that a lot of American audiences could fall in love with at the time. Cuban music is a universe I know very little of, but browsing through Tito Puente's gargantuan discography, you feel like the man covered a lot of different genres related to this part of the world--genres such as afro-cuban percussions, cha-cha-chá, jazzier adaptations, later rock-inspired polyrhythmic shenanigans, and a vast array of more traditional styles whose names and rhythmical features I would be at pain to remember, not to mention *identify* or even *describe*. Being born and raised in New York, and studying at the Julliard School of Music, Puente was certainly the right talented fellow to make this type music popular in the US during the fifties and the sixties. And as a skilled player of timbales (a basic Cuban drumset) and marimba, he sure knew how to slap! As far as general audiences go, Puente's most celebrated composition, "1963's "Oye Como Va", was famously covered by Santana in *Abraxas* a few years later. Listening to *Dance Mania*, you can't help thinking that this is a *clearly* popular track that's missing in this record, even though a lot of the cuts actually foretell that later hit's infectious rhythms and flavoured arrangements (the album it's from, *El Rey Bravo* is actually less tight than this one, but also more adventurous sonically speaking, which is interesting...). Guess I understand the rationale that made Dimery's team think *Dance Mania* is a must-have, given its former popularity and inclusion in the US' National Recording Registry. I would lie if I said I was 100% blown away listening to it--some of the tunes sound a little alike to me--but my ears are probably at fault here. That said, there are a lot of various arrangements and individual performances that hit the mark, that much is for sure. And the production values are stellar for 1958. 3/5 for the purposes of this list of "essential albums" (might bump it up to a 4 later, because I readily admit that I need to get acquainted with that overall genre--one that such list needs to spend some time on). Which, for now at least, translates to a 8/10 grade for more general purposes. (5+3). Number of albums left to review: 280 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 318 Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 175 (including this one, most probably). Albums from the list I won't include in mine (many other records are more important to me): 232
Gear: Focal Clear Mix: beeindruckende Räumlichkeit und Dynamik - insb. für 1958! Musik: ohne Frage tolle Klänge - am Ende ist "Dance Mania Vol.1", als Album, aber doch nur ein Sampler generischer Latino-Tanzmusik Wertung: 💃💃(💃)/5
Schwungvoll
Absolute garbage. Spanish music that was a hit 60 years ago like they knew something smh. Put them on some tame Impala and they would loose their shit
If you like salsa, this album is for you.
A very classic mambo sound. Solid "vibe" of an album, but essentially wallpaper at this point. Would give this a 2.5 but must round. 3/5.
This is a really good album. It had me dancing all over the place as I was getting ready for the day.
Not for me.
Lekker achtergrondmuziekje, niks spannends, Cuba-gevoel
Mojito käteen ja jortsuilee Havannan clubeille. Siinähän tämä meni.
Upposi ja koko päivä meni ko. genreä kuunnellessa.
Liked this!
This album was not really my cup of tea. If you enjoy cuban mambo, then this is the album for you. Unfotunately, mambo is a genre that I rarely, if ever, would listen to on my own. I recommend this album if you enjoy what I described, otherwise I would skip. Favorite Song(s): N/A
Congas and timbales. This type of music usually bores me. This one did too. Good musicians though. Vocals are stupid 2 stars
NO - latein-amer. Tanzmusik
ничего особо не осознала кроме как же местами на русский язык похоже)
fave track: estoy siempre junto a ti final thoughts: liked it!!! good for a boogie
Salsa. Pues me ha gustado.
If I never listened to this album and I died I’ll be fine
Great stuff.
Meh, not really for me
Henry’s Cellar Bar… is that you??
I wouldn't say this is bad but the language barrier, for me personally, really prevents this from being "something you need to hear before you die". I know it's ignorance on my part not knowing Spanish but I know there are millions more like me. Musically its really good! Classic Mambo/Guaracha music! The language barrier just brings it down for me. Struggling with rating between a 2 and 3. Since I know I'll probably never listen to it again I think I'll go 2 out of 5.
Wanna dance? Too bad. This album doesn't care if you know how to mambo (I don't], you're going to move your feet. And you will like it.
No habla mambo
Classic and perfect Mambo album, hard not to dance to and fun all the way through
Easy listening album that made me feel good.
I feel the same about this Latin big band music as I do about bluegrass and metal: it all tends to blend together when passively listening but would be a blast to hear in person, get a lil' sloppy and dance to etc. It's hard to tell if this music is a dime-a-dozen or if Mr. Puente was truly a pioneer in his genre at the time. Or maybe his music was so influential that it was played everywhere and became cliched. Idk. Seeing that he's won a bunch of awards, it's probably me that's out of touch and can't appreciate his expertise without context. Would rather hear this stuff live but it falls flat for me on 21st century speakers.
I feel bad but I couldn't finish this album. It's really not my thing. My sincerest apologies to both Tito Puente and also his (very talented) orchestra.
DNF. I wouldn’t be mad if it was on in the background, but I had a very hard time purposefully listening to it.
This is my jam.
Good
What a pleasant surprise! Didn't expect to like this album, but what a joy! Simply impossible not to end up in a good mood listening to this!
Loved this. Mambo!
Fun album, but I can't say anything in particular jumped out above the rest. Great for setting a particular kind of mood though!
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.
This is not me, 12 songs with Latin American dance music. Did listen all songs but after 2 songs already feeling bored and sleepy. Too brainy and guitar-y for this.
As an individual song. It was good I liked it. I think my personal problem was that the whole album at one time was too much for me.
Can appreciate the fact that it’s on the list but didn’t do much for me
Pretty brilliant. Solid then adds something to kick it over the top. Love the horns.
I liked it! New and different for me
people who like this music are gonna like this album and people who don't, won't
01) El Cayuco - 7,0 02) Complicación - 7,0 03) 3-D Mambo - 6,5 04) Llegó Miján - 7,0 05) Cuando Te Vea - 6,5 06) Hong Kong Mambo - 7,5 07) Mambo Gozón - 7,0 08) Mi Chiquita Quiere Bembé - 6,5 09) Varsity Drag - 6,5 10) Estoy Siempre Junto a Ti - 6,0 11) Agua Limpia Todo - 6,5 12) Saca Tu Mujer - 7,0 TOTAL: 6,75 (68/100) This was probably dance mania back then, but now, 66 years later, it's...not.
This was a fun listen
This is really fun and just genuinely good dance music. I'm sitting at work and want to tango.
This was good for what it was. Not my favorite genre, but it wasn't bad.
Absolutely legendary Mambo from Tito Puente. The GOAT.
Harmless feelgood tunes that all sound like the Dora The Explorer theme song.
Mambo. Me ha gustado. Un 4.
Revenge? Of course! But why wound his body with bullets, when I can set his soul on fire with a slanderous mambo? -Tito Puente
I did spontaneously combust listening to this mambo.
meh
I'm not well-versed in this genre, but Tito's the one everyone else copies right? This is a good album. Lot's of swag.
How can you not love a bit of Tito. Admittedly you know what youre getting ,but what you're getting is a load of fun
cha cha cha
Thus surprised me, as someone who never had much interest in mamba. So much fun! Had me dancing at work like a doofus. 4 stars
I'm a huge fan of Tito Puente so I'm always happy to hear his music. I really enjoyed this album, again.
Me Encanta
Favourite songs: Mambo Gozon, Cuando Te Vea, Three D Mambo, Llego Mijan Least favourite songs: Hong Kong Mambo 3/5
fun, so cheerful
Muzak
Next 5 songs played by my Spotify Algorithm: Lex Easy & The Mambo Club - Funk the Rich Bebo & Cachao - Sabor Tito Rodriguez & His Orchestra - Exodus Potato - Mas Que Nada Noro Morales - Maria Cervantes
I would never choose to listen to this.
Enjoyable listen. Nothing really grabbed me but the whole thing was very pleasant. It may be something about not being able to tune in to the vocals but for me this is high quality background music.
This one was fun - mambo! I’m starting to think of so many themed dinner parties with these albums. 😄 Listens: 2 Fave Track: Varsity Drag Rating: 3
please, give me more mambo
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.
Not mine.
Uplifting orchestral music with some sparse spanish vocals. Quite enjoyable. Stand-out: Agua Limpia Todo
A fun vibe. Reminded me of I Love Lucy.
Not my jam.
yesssssss
Ridiculously fun, spirited and raucous. The quintessential mambo record.
Mambo Album sehr cool.
lo linda que es esta música por dioo😭 10/10
When I was learning GCSE Music, I grew particularly obsessed with percussion and indeed timbales specifically. Not playing necessarily, but just the sound. I also played trumpet and a teacher put me on to Tito Puente. I think I only *cough* legally *cough* downloaded a few tracks, this being the days of dial-up modems and before streaming services, which I enjoyed. This full length album is quite a nice trip down memory lane - I guess beyond a certain point it does begin to sound a bit kitsch and Tuesday night village hall salsa class but on the whole I enjoyed it.
Latin classic, loved the feel of this one
5/5 First time I listened to a mambo album, really appreciated the instrumental tracks.
Un disco divertido, diferente a los que han puesto. Me gusto, esta bien hecho. No conozco mucho del genero pero esta muy divertido y uno se la pasa bien escuchandolo. Me gustaron mucho los ritmos que usan, son muy distintivos y juegan mucho con este recurso al momento de construir las melodías. Esta padre.
Every song sounds the same but it’s pretty catchy and enjoyable. This is worthy of being on this list. Last few songs are the best. Ez 3.5
poopy twisting instrument bad.
Makes you want to shake your butt cheeks.
Musik man kan lyssna på om man nån gång i livet skulle orka ha en tema-kväll, typ karibiskt eller vad vet jag. Eller om man skulle få en tegelsten i huvudet och få för sig att börja dansa "sexigt och passionerat". Omöjligt att lyssna på bara så där. Ssk störigt med brasset som kommer in och punkterar hela tiden, lite som en galning som skriker planlöst rakt ut i luften.
Jaha, den som kan särskilja de här låtarna från varandra får guldmedalj. Och då har jag ändå uppskattat och lyssnat på bosa nova. Svag 2:a om man inte sitter på en bar på cuba och dricker rom. Men det är ju sällan man gör det.
Passar som filmmusik. Eller om man faktiskt ska dansa salsa. Då funkar musiken. Det är inte dåligt eller olidligt på nåt sätt. Men "oseriöst". Det är taskigt kanske. Men skivan heter dance Mania, så Tito är knappast seriös själv. Han vill att man ska ha kul å dansa. Det är så jävla simpelt, och allt låter exakt likadant. Funktionell musik. #1 lite kul, vilket också är ett problem. Väcker inget i en. "Stereotyp" musik. #2 kommer låtarna vara omöjliga att skilja åt? Antagligen. #3 en fortsättning på #2? Jaha, nähä. #4 lite långsammare? #5 joråsåatt #6 "Bäst" hittills, men kommer aldrig lyssna igen. Instrumental. #7 tillbaka till att låta som alla andra låtar. Varför göra mer än en låt?
Trumpeterna ger mig cancer i öronen. Låtarna är tråkiga. Blir inte det minsta sugen på att dansa.
Nej det här går inte. Inkvoterat.
Hahahahaha
This is very much the kind of thing you’ll like if you like this kind of thing. For the rest of us (including we many non-dancers) this is no better than just okay, of interest and to be appreciated only for what it is, precisely.
Didn’t do it for me
upbeat and energetic. this album just makes you want to dance.
Yeah, it's fine.
This was fun for a bit.
This was fun - passing a Friday work morning pleasantly enough. Nothing really jumped out at me, but it works as an album and a mood, and probably sounded quite exciting when it was released.
I have little reference points here. So it's probaby best to appreciate this album for what it is - joyful, uplifting music. There's nothing wrong in that.
I was dancing to the mambo. Very fun and entertaining. I wouldn't listen to it often but it was a playful addition to the list.
Inoffensive. Pleasant. Wouldn't listen again.
Nothing better than a cha-cha
Fun record. Made me want to shake my hips.
Vamos a bailar! Was nearly dancing in S-bahn at some point, but probably would not consciously listen to it again. No quiero complicación. Don’t want complicación, just want to dance💃🏻
Can't add anything meaningful
take a glass champagne and come to our yacht, where we wear diamonds and secretly cheat on our spouses
Just plain fun.
Ok music I guess. Never listening to this restaurant lobby ahh music again tho
every song sounds the exact same. that the song it sounds like is trash!