SIEMBRA LIVE The Fania catalogue is known all over the world as the definitive treasure trove of Afro-Caribbean music - a library of epic proportions that includes hundreds of timeless albums. What many people don't know, however, is that the vaults of Fania also contain dozens of rare recordings that have yet to see the light of day. Beginning a long standing effort to finally make the entire contents of its catalogue available, Fania is releasing a stunning recording of Rubén Blades and Willie Colón in concert, taped in 1980 at New Jersey's Capitol Theatre.

At the time, Blades and Colón were touring to promote Siembra - considered by many as Blades' magnum opus. The sonics of the original tapes are clear and warm, making this release one of the most exciting live albums in the annals of salsa.

The majority of the Siembra album was performed during that evening - including a raucous extended version of "Buscando Guayaba," and a superb reading of the mega-hit "Pedro Navaja." Fans of the leaner, highly atmospheric Metiendo Mano will be delighted to know that Blades and Colón chose to include two tracks off that LP: "Plantación Adentro," as well as the socially aware anthem "Pablo Pueblo."



Monthly Contest: SIEMBRA QUIZ We are giving away THREE copies of the Siembra Special Edition CD. For a chance to win, answer the following trivia questions. For studious salseros only!

 Interview:

WILLIE COLON Together with Héctor Lavoe and Rubén Blades, Willie Colón constituted the Holy Trinity of salsa - the three artists who took Afro-Caribbean music to remarkable levels of lyricism and sophistication. Free Download: JOE CUBA "Aprieta (Oye Como Va)" Fania's free download is a real treat this month: here we have what's arguably the coolest cover ever recorded of a venerable Latin classic - Tito Puente's "Oye Como Va." Playlist: LARRY HARLOW Throughout the years, virtuoso keyboardist, composer and producer Larry Harlow has always remained close to the Fania legacy - cherishing and expanding the roots of Afro-Caribbean music.