Modesto Duran & Orchestra - Fabulous Sounds of Modesto
Cuban-born Modesto Dura was a disciple of mambo innovator Perez Prado but also played his own crucial role in Latin dance music's mid-century evolution. His distinctive percussion work features on numerous 1950s hits including tracks by Esquivel, Belafonte, Eartha Kitt, and Lena Horne. On his 1960 solo debut, Duran assembled a stellar lineup of conga players in Mongo Santamaria, Willie Bobo, and Juan Cheda and they created a cinematic blend of Afro-Cuban, cha-cha, and exotic jazz styles. This album offers a rich, percussive vibe while showcasing Duran's influential contribution to Latin music.