Mercedes Sosa
Cantora
Sony Music
www.sonymusicentertainment.com
By George W. Harris

Vocalist Mercedes Sosa was one of the driving forces of the “nueva
cancion” movement in Spanish pop/folk back in the 60s. This release,
which is actually part one of two volumes, is sort of a “duets”
recording with popular artists like Shakira and Lila Downs. What on
paper seems like a marketing ploy actually works out acoustically well,
thanks to the musical baton of Popi Spatocco, who frames the songs with
strings, guitars and traditional instruments with élan and taste. None
of the guests seem out of place, and there is no intimidation between
Sosa and artists like Jorge Drexler and Daniela Mercury. Ten times
better than Sinatra’s tries, and as good as Charles’ summits. Give it a
try.