Double LP version in deluxe double-gatefold sleeve. Twenty-six red-hot, skin-slappin', bongo-bashin' Latin jazz 'n' mambo bangers! The phrase "living legend" is undoubtedly overused, but there can be few people more deserving of such an accolade than Jack Costanzo. Born on September 24, 1919, Costanzo is arguably the most significant percussionist of the modern era. Playing with many key orchestras, leading his own band, appearing in numerous TV shows and films, and tutoring bongo playing to the stars, more than any other figure Jack Costanzo brought percussion, specifically Latin percussion and his trademark bongos, to widespread attention. But he wasn't merely a popularist; he was revered by his peers and critics alike for his natural ability, invention, and, perhaps most importantly, his sheer versatility. He became known as "Mr. Bongo" (first coined by jazz critic Leonard Feather), and the tag could hardly be more appropriate. Latin music and its influence in general is often criminally overlooked in music history, but as a white Italian American who rose to prominence playing Latin music at the height of the mambo craze of the 1950s, Jack Costanzo has probably been even more neglected. This 26-track retrospective seeks to give him the special treatment his spectacular career deserves. Showcasing many of the musical highlights of his mid-'50s peak and featuring extensive liner notes based on new interviews with Costanzo himself, Mr. Bongo serves as a perfect introduction to the many who may not yet be aware of Jack Costanzo, and provides those who are already fans with the ultimate collection of his work. All tracks digitally restored from original sources. A1 Sax Con Ritmo A2 Caravan A3 Cumbanchero A4 Quiere Live A5 El Diabolito A6 La La La A7 Bongo Fever A8 Taboo B1 Bei Mir Bist Do Schoen B2 Malaguena B3 Peanut Vendor B4 Jarochito B5 Adjaye-Adjaye C1 Bongo Festeris C2 Tabu C3 Oye Negra C4 Atu C5 Quiere C6 Goza Negra C7 Robin's Mambo D1 Rabo E Mula D2 Pharoahs Curse D3 Latin Fever D4 Mira Como Los Pollos D5 Abainaquito D6 Besame Mucho