The predicted crash of Timba has been greatly exaggerated, and although the tunes, arrangements and percussion breakdowns are getting a tad formulaic I (for one) can vouch that it's a formula loved by those who like their latin dance a little more raw and street than that played in the countless cheesy-speed-date salsa-dance-lesson type establishments up and down the country.

Like many timberos, Manolito's musical credentials are faultless - he's been an arranger for many of the first-rank dance and charanga bands in Havana at one time or another. His previous record was a disappointment, and certainly not up to the standard of the one before that, 'Consciencia', but 'Locos' is a real return to form. Title track has been blasting from every radio and dance joint in Havana, but don't stop there - the set rocks from beginning to end.

Now all we timbaheads have to do is endure the seemingly endless delay on the release of the next Havana classic :Los Van Van with 'Ven Ven Ven' (bootleg promos are around but don't bother - the sound quality's a joke).