Willie Colon 'Lo Mato (Si No Compra Este LP)'

Even though the professional relationship between Lavoe and Colon was already strained by the time “Lo Mato” was released in 1973, you wouldn’t know it by listening it. Lavoe’s throaty vocals sound soulful and mature, exhibiting his impeccable timing and infectious sense of humor. Colon filled the session with the trademark roar of his trombone solos. He also happened to have written some of the most inspired songs of his career. Tunes such as “El Día De Suerte” and “Todo Tiene Su Final” are indispensable entries in the Colon/Lavoe songbook.

One listen to the anthemic opening track ”Calle Luna Calle Sol” (used to this day by Colon as part of a medley of old hits that he performs at the beginning of his concerts) is enough to make you realize that “Lo Mato” has aged remarkably well. The combination of ragged trombone, tasty piano lines and a rock solid rhythm section sounds ageless and hip. The sonics are warm and rustic, evoking the rich texture of a vintage wine.

Lyrically, there is an undercurrent of darkness that permeates the record. From the aggressive undertone of its humorous title, Lo Mato Si No Compra Este LP– I’ll Kill You If You Don’t Buy This LP– to Calle Luna Calle Sol’s cautionary tale of a street that should be avoided at all costs because it is infested with criminals, the collection is seeped in bitterness and regret.