Monthly Archive for September, 2009

Original Release Date: October 29, 2002
Label: Sony

Radio Espantoso hopefully will introduce a whole new generation to New York Latin Big Band Jazz, late 70s latin jazz funk, and such huge artists as Mongo Santamaria.

Of all of the Vice City soundtracks, i find this one to have the most consistent musical quality. There is only one song on this whole album I dislike (“La Vida Es Una Lenteja” by Unresta which is an unauthentic track made especially for the game). I am also not too into the tracks by Irakere and Beny More. Every other song on this album, i absolutely love. I listen to this one more than any other Vice City soundtrack.

The two Deodato tracks, “Super Strut” and “Latin Flute” contain great 70s funk with virtuosic solos. Mongo Santamaria’s “Me And You Baby” contains an awesome trumpet solo at the beginning and cool albeit slightly cheesy vocals. “Jamay” by Xavier Cugat and his Orchestra is a dramatic and epic latin big band song. Tito Puente’s “Mambo Gozon” is a certified classic, and “A Gozar Con Mi Combo” by Cachao contains really cool arrangements that include a meaty clarinet part.

This album is a very good introduction to Latin Big Band and 70s Jazz. I will most likely buy albums from some of these artists and i just really love this album. So especially if you like this radio station in the video game, or if you just are interested in getting your feet wet with this type of music, get this album right away!

Tracklist:
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