Album Notes

In Que Bueno Baila Usted ("How Good You Dance"), the very famous Benny Moré song, the singers call out "Generoso how good you play!" Every Cuban knows whom they are singing about: Generoso Jiménez, star of the Benny Moré Big Band and the most celebrated trombonist in the history of Cuban music.

El Trombon Majadero is Generoso's one recording as a bandleader. Out of print for many years, it is a classic that Cuban trombonists use as a model in their education,sharing worn-out records and imitating the well known phrases.

In April 1955, Generoso joined Benny Moré as an arranger and composer, section leader and soloist. He remained in the band until June 1959. Even after this he helped Benny with arrangements and musical details. Generoso's own band existed from November 1963 until September 1965. He finished his career as part of the prestigious orchestra of the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television.

We translate El Trombon Majadero as "The Naughty Trombone." It is as if the trombone takes control away from the performer, playfully making its own music. Once it gets started, you cannot stop it from inventing one note and then another. This concept perfectly fits Generoso's playing. He sings out beautifully smooth phrases that sound like his trombone has valves. Or he blares out guttural solos that speak of the streets and the nightlife. And all sorts of sounds in between.