Rich and rhythmic, sparkling and seductive, Felix Baloy’s voice marks him as one of Cuba’s very finest someros. This magnificent performance showcases a true artist at the peak of his profession, backed by the thrilling arrangements of Juan de Marcos and the peerless Afro Cuban All Stars.

Felix Baloy has been singing for more than 40 years which means he has waited a long time to make his first solo album. One of Cuba’s outstanding soneros with a unique timbre, the opportunity came about after he met Tumi Music founder Mo Fini in Havana in 1995 when Baloy sang on the label’s splendid four CD set Las Leyendas de la Musica Cubana as part of the Cuban All Stars with Orquesta AmÈrica.

There’s an absolute joy about this record, and Baloy proves himself worthy of all the praise that’s been heaped on him in Cuba, as capable of gliding through the cha cha of “Van a Bailar el Cha Cha Cha,” with its prim strings, as the rawer bolero of “El Mal de la Hipocresia.” The arrangements frame his voice wonderfully, too, as on the rich bolero cha of “Los Es Todo Tu Amor,” with its glistening flute solo. Baloy does himself proud, and Gonzalez gives him a band to remember behind him, some crystal clear production, and songs any singer would love to sing. Nigh on perfect. AMG/Chris Nickson