New York's own Trumpeter Richie Vitale teams with Chileno and Tresero/ Dancer / Choreograher, Carlos Koing on this amazing debut CD "New York Salsa." From the very first track you realize that this cd is going to be very special. It promises to transport you "center stage," where you feel like you're watching and listening to this Orchestra "live" in an era where music appreciation was at an all time high. Join the journey, back to the "Palladium Days" of Mambo... to present day Salsa favorites. This 12 piece New York City based Orchestra is comprised of musicians such as Cucho Martinez on bass, Jorge Jimenez on congas, Chacho Ramirez on bongós, Lester Luburd on timbales, with Edy Martinez heading the rhythm section on piano. Sonero Pichardo and Chuito de Jesus on background vocals, with lead vocals headed by David Oquendo. The group performs with The Carlos Konig Dancers interpreting many of the classic dance numbers, in an effort to portray the history and transition of mambo, back in the day, to the hot salsa we listen to, dance to, and as Dj's share with our listeners and Salseros today! I can't single out any particular track as my favorite because I loved the CD in its entirety. However, there were a couple of tracks did stand out for me personally. Among those were, Night in Tunisia and How Insensitive. I thoroughly enjoyed the original "Cubano Cha Cha" number by Vitale and Konig, as well as "Evidence" and "Ahora Si." If you love Latin Jazz you'll like those as well. From the very first classic dance track "Fuego a La Jicotea" you realize that this one is a keeper. Additional classic favorites include El Manisero, La Sopa en Botella. And, get ready to hit the dance floors with Agua de Clavelito! Quality at it's best! Superb "Big Band" styles and sound, a true dancer's delight and your favorite classics. Add that, together with the talents of Vitale and Konig and you have one simply amazing debut CD! Talk about "Gettin' it right" the first time! Highly Recommended. If you don't have this one, you need to get it asap!