Short Tracks : Fania All Stars - Latin–Soul–Rock - Reissue

On Fanta Records, the 1973 recording of the August 24, 1973 Yankee Stadium concert by the Fan All Stars is a treat from start to finish. The all too brief recording, long out of print, is released in 180-gram vinyl to celebrate the original release's 50th anniversary. Remastered by Kevin Gray, the large and impressive all start group are on fire from the opening track, “ Viva Tirado” until the album’s final track, the percussion work out, “Congo Bongo”. While the recording includes just eight songs from the concert, what is included in the album is epic. Guest musician Billy Cobham handles the drumming for the concerts, and musical director and percussionist Johnny Paado leads the five other core all-starts through a riveting workout.

Additionally, Vaya Records guest stars such as Bobby Cruz and Ismael Quintana contributed vocals while invited All-Stars like Jorge “Malo” Santana on guitar and Manu Dibango, who played tenor sax on “Viva Tirado,” made significant contributions. “Viva Tirado” and “Mama Guiela” also feature calling Hammond B-3 work by guest All-STar Jan Hammer. The album is a joy from start to finish and is available on 192/24 hi-res digital audio. That is, if you are one of the 300 lucky souls, you can get a deluxe Fuego vinyl-colored limited edition vinyl copy.