Album Review: Como Estas Que Hay El Apostol De La Paz by Leroy Gittens
Alright, let’s talk about this hidden gem from 1968—Como Estas Que Hay El Apostol De La Paz by Leroy Gittens. If you’re into Latin music with a heavy dose of Afro-Cuban vibes, this one’s gonna grab your attention. Released in Chile under the label Arena Producciones, it’s got that raw, unpolished charm that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon something special.
First off, the album kicks off with the title track, “Como Estas Que Hay.” Man, this tune just hits different. It’s got this infectious rhythm that feels like a warm hug from an old friend. The percussion is on point—hand drums, congas, all working together like a well-oiled machine. And Leroy’s voice? It’s smooth but kinda earthy, like he’s telling you a story over a late-night bonfire. I remember this track because it’s impossible not to move to it. Seriously, try sitting still while it’s playing. Spoiler alert: you can’t.
Then there’s “El Apostol De La Paz,” which takes things up a notch. This one feels more reflective, almost like a prayer set to music. The horns come in soft but steady, layering over the beat in a way that gives me goosebumps every time. It’s the kind of song that makes you pause and think, “Wow, music really can feel like peace.” I mean, the title says it all—an apostle of peace, right? That’s exactly what this track feels like. It’s not just background noise; it’s an experience.
What’s wild is how this album came out in Chile during such a unique time for music globally. You’ve got the Afro-Cuban style bringing heat, but there’s also this underlying chill that keeps it grounded. It’s like Leroy knew exactly how to balance fire and calm. Plus, it’s pretty cool imagining this record spinning on turntables in Santiago back in the day.
Honestly, listening to this album feels like stepping into a time machine. It’s not perfect—there are moments where you can hear the imperfections, little cracks in the recording—but that’s what makes it so real. It’s like Leroy and his crew weren’t trying to be flawless; they were just trying to make people feel something. And they nailed it.
Here’s the thing: I didn’t expect to love this album as much as I do. Like, who knew a Chilean release from 1968 could slap this hard? But here we are. If you’re looking for something fresh yet nostalgic, give this one a spin. Just don’t blame me if you end up dancing around your living room like nobody’s watching.
Oh, and random thought—how cool would it be to see Leroy Gittens jamming with some modern-day artists? Imagine him collaborating with someone like Cimafunk or even Bad Bunny. Yeah, my brain just exploded a little thinking about it.
