Ry Cooder's involvement in the Buena Vista Social Club has undoubtedly drawn attention to this remarkable session, but it is the veteran Cuban son musicians who truly make this album special. Reminiscent of Duke Ellington in its scope and sense of hushed romanticism, Buena Vista Social Club is a rare blend of quietude and intensity. The musicians, while sounding laid-back, deliver vibrant and lively music, serving as a reminder that aging doesn't equate to slowing down.
One of the standout moments on the album is Barbarito Torres's laoud solo on "El Cuarto de Tula," which is both dazzling and tasteful, surpassing any guitar showcase on recent rock albums. The album also features a quote from "Stormy Weather" and draws distinct parallels to Hawaiian styles, underscoring why it is aptly categorized as "world music." As Rickey Wright notes, this album is a testament to the global reach and influence of these talented musicians.
Guitar master Ry Cooder, reflecting on his involvement, stated, "I felt like I'd trained all my life for this album. It's the peak." This project marks his first recording since his Grammy-winning Talking Timbuktu, and in it, he collaborates with a galaxy of Cuba's finest musicians. The result is a timeless collection that captures the essence of Cuban music and showcases the extraordinary talents of its performers.