Listening to this recording is similar to having a knowledgeable friend spin some tunes that fit together in many likely though not necessarily expected ways. It is a “mix tape” of sorts that features disparate artists such as conga master Poncho Sanchez as well as the late vocalist of Bourbon Street acclaim Big Al Carson. The common denominator here is, of course, the rhythm of the songs with Sanchez working on a lively version of “Going Back to New Orleans” written by Joe Liggins made hugely popular by Dr. John that includes some fine vocals by New Orleans’ own Ledisi. Meanwhile Big Al goes to the Hank Williams’ classic “Jambalaya,” that’s most associated with Cajun and zydeco music, though here has a distinctly Latin feel. All the material, which focuses on the Cuba’s influences on New Orleans’ unique beats, has previously been released on various albums.