Concert Review: Adalberto Alvarez

Hollywood Park Casino, Inglewood, Calif.

Friday, March 19

The Hollywood Park Casino was the perfect backdrop for the Los Angeles debut of Adalberto Alvarez and his 12-piece orchestra, one of the hottest outfits working the crowded field of Cuban salsa today.

Alvarez has been nicknamed "The Gentleman of Salsa" because of his traditionalist approach to the genre. Unlike more popular (and less tasteful) bands from his country like Los Van Van or NG La Banda, he hasn't succumbed to the pressure of imitating American pop, incorporating funk or rap segments into the tunes.

Undisturbed, Alvarez has always kept an eye on the musical history of his native Cuba, continuing the tradition of formidable bandleaders such as Arsenio Rodriguez. Although he has written hundreds of hits for plenty of orchestras, he chose to open Friday's show with a crackling version of the Miguel Matamoros standard "Mientes." It was a powerful demonstration of Afro-Cuban combustion, the staccato horns and soaring vocal harmonies luring everybody to the dance floor.

Instrumentally, Alvarez's most inspired choice has been to include daughter Dorgeris on piano and backup vocals. One of her solos (quoting a melody by Bobby Capo as a tribute to Puerto Rico) was pure gold, captivating in its ability to conjure up a contemplative mood amid the percussive fireworks of a salsa tune.

But the night was all about sticky beats and frantic dancing. After completing a second set, Alvarez came back for an extended encore that ended at 2:30 a.m. It included the tremendously catchy "Y Que Tu Quieres Que Te Den?" where the influence of African religious music was especially palpable.

It is questionable whereas Adalberto Alvarez will ever become a household name within the domestic salsa community. But with a new record coming out soon and a return visit to Los Angeles this summer, it will be as good a chance as any for him to gain the popularity he so justly deserves.