Ibrahim Ferrer

Told his voice was too "macho" to sing bolero when he was starting out as a singer, Ibrahim Ferrer finally recorded this album of strictly boleros just before he died. It may yet prove to be the defining sound of his career. Defiantly modern, the album transcends Ferrer's somewhat precious Buena Vista Social Club persona, transforming his age-ravaged voice from an object of nostalgia into a vibrant, expressive instrument. The musicians share credit for their spare but stunning instrumentation: Roberto Fonseca's voluble piano-playing alone deserves an award.