In 1972, NY socio-political/media personality Felipe Luciano had a GREAT radio show in the early 70s on radio station WRVR in New York. He had a Latin Music historian on one Sunday night (Felipe's show was first broadcast at night; later it went to Sunday afternoons). The historian brought a tape of Puente playing "Ran Kan Kan," with Tito's UNBELIEVABLE timbale solo, beginning at 4:12 of the track. I had taped, on reel-to-reel, that performance as they were broadcast. Needless to say, that tape is long gone; but thanks to iTunes, I've just downloaded and heard that particular version of "Ran Kan Kan" for the first time in years!

I am too young to have had the pleasure of enjoying THE KING's music when he was getting started. With this album I hear music never previously released. This album makes me feel like I was there at the Birdland club, dancing to the wonderful music of a young Tito Puente & his Orchestra. Thanks, itunes for once again fulfilling my fantasies !!!

Don't listen to SausageFingaz. He likes Blink 182......LOL!!!! This is real music at it's best. straight old school

Great CD! If you like live recordings - this is "back in the day" stuff - real authentic! I especially liked Autumn Leaves, Cal Miller Mambo (great to hear Tito introduce this tune) and Mambo Inn. However, all the tracks are great. What a find! A Native New Yorker