Azúcar isn't LVV's most ambitious or dramatic album, but in many ways, it's a sentimental favorite. If you feel sad or depressed, you can always cure yourself by cranking this album up and taking a drive, or cleaning the house. Angel Bonne's sweet harmonies are the perfect foil for Pupy and Formell.
Disco Azucar original cover
I used to think of La colección as "pre-timba Van Van" and Disco Azúcar onwards as their timba period. In fact, el tren just continued unabated. The only personnel change was an addition - Ángel Bonne on sax, vocals, and most importantly, as an important new composer whose style perfectly complemented those of Formell and Pupy.
The new international face of Cuban music is also reflected in the the title track, named for Cancún's legendary nightclub which hired Cuban bands for 3 month stints throughout the 90s.
Another discographical rarity is the only LVV recording of a song written by Formell's eldest son, Juan Carlos, who's now enjoying a decidedly un-timba career in New York City. Sung by Bonne, "La historia de Tanya y Juan" is absolutely gorgeous.
