If there ever was a songwritter that touches the latin american culture it is Ruben Blades. This album is masterful in all respects. Nonetheless the album has its highlights, namely a simpple song with a guaguanco beat called Patria, and Contrabando. This are excellent examples of the marriage between lyrics, rythm, and melody to tell a transcending story. I give thanks to Panama for having inspired, and raised such a musician.