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This genius collaboration, rich with an intriguing mix of sounds, is a gorgeously unique listen. It features bands such as Coldplay, U2, Maroon 5 and the Kaiser Chiefs joined by members of the world renowned Buena Vista Social Club. The result is pure auditory bliss.
It opens with an upbeat, Latino version of “Clocks” by Coldplay.
One of my favorite tracks here features Ibrahim Ferrer’s Spanish rendition of “As Time Goes By,” in what ended up being his last recording. Try to imagine Coco Freeman covering “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.” (In Spanish and joined by U2 on the chorus!) I generally have a very vivid imagination, but it was a stretch for me until I heard it. And it works beautifully.
Ormanda Portuondo renders a delightfully poetic interpretation of “Killing Me Softly.” This too, is sung in Spanish. I find listening to the exotic translations of songs (especially ones that I already know the words to) one of the most charming aspects of this collection. Another one of my favorites here is Sting singing the sweet “Fragilidad.” Vania Borges version of “I Don’t Know Why” is exquisite.
The album was produced by Kenny Young for Artists’ Project Earth, an organization that raises funds to create public awareness of environmental issues and offer aid to parts of the planet that have been affected by natural disasters. The amount of love, dedication and creativity that went into this project is deliciously audible. This is one of those rare collections that will move even the most discerning listener.
