PLENA... a folkloric genre native of Puerto Rico

Once called the periodico cantado or "sung newspaper" for those of lower classes, mainly because it carried messages within and among the people.  Carrying beats and rhythms played using hand drums called panderettas or panderos and pleneras (remembling tambourines, however without cymbals), influenced by African and Spanish music.

It is wonderful to be able to enjoy today, that which is part of one's culture, past history and understand the part that Plena played in the development of the same. The message lives on and continues to be spread through the mastery of Plena Libre's music.

If you grew up with Plena you can't help but be drawn into it's inviting rhythms, pounding out that heartbeat that claims you as it's own.  From personal experience, Plena rhythms have a magical way of uniting it's children far and wide.  It is liken to that triangle that was used long ago to call us in for dinner.  We hear that and it's vamonos!

Gary Nuñez & Plena Libre share yet another exhilarating edition of their "periodico cantado", this time however, it's message reaching an ever-awaiting and most appreciative world.   Gary Nuñez & Plena Libre's "Salsa Pa'l Salsero" Live in Monterrey, Mexico is unconditional proof of exactly that!  My first reaction was that of astonishment, "Plena Libre?" "Live concert?"  "Mexico?".. "Really?" The crowd loved them and so did I.

This is a fantastic cd and the dvd is just as entertaining.  I've listened to it several times while in my car, played it on my radio programs and it truly makes me feel like I'm right there, experiencing the concert in person. 

Gary Nuñez & Plena Libre are to be commended on this superb album which includes six brand new original compositions as well as some carefully selected covers, bringing the number to 14 tracks total.  This is as close to home as it get!  A powerhouse of rhythms that will leave you hoping that the songs don't end too soon!