"Discovery has always been humanity's best friend: consider dogs, fire, and the wheel. My discovering the joy of salsa dancing has led to happy feet and yet another way to quench my ongoing thirst for fresh, juicy music. Discovering Ritmo Masacote, the recording created by Joel "Masacote" Massicot. I experienced a collection of work by various artists clearly demonstrating how to fuse several styles into a unique blend of tasty musical treats -- all in one package. Ritmo Masacote's gift is obvious from the first downbeat you hear. The CD's flavor is irresistible, toe-tapping, hip, and head-shakingly groovy. If you don't move to this Ritmo, you are not alive. Not one to rest on his laurels, however, Mr. Massicot whips up another great concoction with his second release, Fantagious. As Joel notes, "With this production we wanted to let our creativity be a contagious, free-flowing fantasy." Fantagious starts with Herbie Hancock's "Maiden Voyage;" Herbie would be impressed with this interpretation. On this release, cuts five, six, and seven comprise "The Fantagious Suite," which opens with a beautifully soothing solo piano introduction from the bandleader. The suite continues with a solid melody established by the horn section, which blends a jazz approach with the Latin percussion section. Everyone can relate to this album, which creatively amalgamates a number of musical styles without losing the passion of its expressive delivery. Mark your calendar for the Ritmo Masacote CD release party Friday, May 16, 2008, Kresge Auditorium, MIT, Cambridge MA and experience the Ritmo Masacote live!"