Indestructible
Ray Barretto · 1973 · from the album Indestructible
New York's go-to conguero leads a fast guaracha with three trumpets, a flute and a timbales solo.
- congas
- timbales
Why it matters
Ray Barretto was the conguero New York called first, and by the early 1970s he was also a bandleader with a loyal following. He recorded the album Indestructible in 1973 for Fania, with Tito Allen as the new singer. The title track is one of the songs most tied to his name.
Craft Recordings' notes say it's Barretto's best-selling album, and the first salsa album to use three trumpets and a flute together. It's a good song for hearing how the congas, timbales and bongó fit together to carry a fast dance.
What to listen for
- The congas: Ray Barretto leads his band from the drums. Listen for the congas under the horns and piano.
- A guaracha: an up-tempo, in-your-face style. Count it fast and keep your steps small and light.
- The timbales solo, played by Ray Romero.
- The three trumpets and a flute on the album, a sound that was new to salsa at the time.
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