[Pre-Show Post]
Episode 25 is a sort of milestone, however small. It spotlights the piano in 1970s salsa.
The piano has versatility in salsa for its roles in rhythm, melody, and harmony. Although easy to hear, sometimes the piano just blends with other percussive instruments. At other times it switches from this background role to function as a prominent element of a song, such as in a solo. Whether as a solo or part of the multilayered rhythms comprising a salsa tune, the piano has special appeal for me.
When considering salsa's golden era -- let's say the 1970s -- there are several pianists that come to mind, such as Eddie Palmieri, Markolino Dimond, Joe Torres, Papo Lucca, Javier Vazquez, Alfredito Linares, and Larry Harlow, to name just a few. In this edition of Encanto Tropical we will listen to them and others.
I have highlighted the piano in salsa on other occasions, such as the following.
Episode 25 of Encanto Tropical compiles another two hours' worth of songs with amazing piano work -- all from the golden era of salsa. In truth, there are too many great examples to squeeze into one show, so my selection will be limited, and in no way are my choices meant to be authoritative. This is not about the "best" in salsa piano; it is just a small selection of songs which I find noteworthy. I hope listeners enjoy it and find inspiration to seek other great examples of 'salsa piano'.
