Mongo & Justo - Ubane (1976)

Mongo Santamaria and Justo Betancourt contribute heavily to make this album one of the top Latin albums of 1976. The artists, with the creative input of longtime Santamaria arranger Marty Sheller, create a highly diverse production where Santería, Latin jazz, and 1970s salsa blend into an intoxicating brew. There is plenty of energy and spirit to spare, with Barry Rogers, Justo Almario, and legendary veteran Gonzalo Fernández grabbing all honors in their highly individualistic styles. Of course, at the core of this effort is Santamaria, whose pulsating playing makes the listener stand up and cheer. Among the standouts are the title tune, "Cantándole al Amor".