Disco de Orishas: “A Lo Cubano”

A friend at work loaned me this CD because she knew I was Cuban and thought I might be able to understand some of the slang she couldn't quite get. Not particularly a fan of hip-hop, I wasn't sure I would like it. But, I figured I listen to the lyrics; if nothing else, they would bring me back to my younger days in the streets of "La Vibora", Habana (nothing like el barrio "Cayo Hueso" or "Jesus Maria", but "un barrio en Cuba" never the less). Well, I've been playing this CD constantly for three weeks. The music is captivating. Wow, what a refreshing style; I couldn't stop playing it! The rhythm and sounds are energizing, particularly "A LO CUBANO" and "ORISHAS LLEGO"; they are my favorite. Also outstanding is their blend of old and new in "537 C.U.B.A"; it is a real treat, I loved it. The lyrics are great all over, not offensive at all, but instructive in many respects and a times amusing. "Atrevido" is an amusing tale about the consequences of a guy (un tipo) going after someone else's girl being used as bait for a scam: "Que punto el tipo acere! Que clase de jugada le hemos metido!" "1.9.9.9" is another amusing and exhilarating collections of sound and lyrics" A mi tu no me enganas... Me estrana que siendo arana, de la pared tu te caigas". Even though I just mentioned a few highlights, the entire CD is absolutely energizing and a must have. I am getting my own copy right after I submit this review so I don't skip a beat when I return the one I have to its owner. Even though I had no idea they existed, Orishas get a top rating (5 stars) from me. I am hooked on their sound!

I heard this playing in The Art Store in San Francisco and was immediately hooked! I have long loved the beat and energy of rap and hip-hop, but have grown increasingly bored and disgusted by the lack of originality or depth of American artists. "Represent" was playing in the store and it grabbed me by the jugular - I asked the clerk for the name and looked for the CD for months before finding it on Amazon and since I got it, I've played it over and over - I have no idea what they're saying but the beats and the rhythms are so crisp, clear and POWERFUL -I DON'T EVEN CARE! The music transcends language boundaries and touches my soul.

THIS IS A GREAT CD. THIS GUYS ARE REALLY GOOD, THEY TAKE ME BACK TO MY ROOTS, JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES AND IT'S LIKE YOU'RE WALKING IN HAVANA. CAN'T WAIT TO SEE THEM IN CONCERT. thanks.

It's a great blend of hip hop with Cuban son and merengue. The beats are dope but Orishas lyrics are what make their music great. They are not lyrics filled with sexism and violence. Their lyrics deal with issues of the struggle of Cuba and political freedom "Represent," "Barrio," "1.9.9.9," and "537 C.U.B.A.," are one of the best tracks on the CD, but the seriousness of their lyrics doesn't take away from enjoying the beats and music. Overall it's a great CD.

When Orishas released this CD I was still living in Cuba. I used to listen to these songs all day long with my friends. Then I moved to US and what can I tell you? 537 Cuba is like an anthem for me because it really tells the reality about the feelings of Cuban people and perhaps every person that lefts his country likes us. On the other hand, these guys are amazing! The mixture of rap with traditional Cuban music is something original, out of this world. I don't like hip hop music at all, but Orishas are the exception. Buy this CD, it worth every penny, you won't be disappointed!