Gloria Estefan 90 Millas

For many, Gloria Estefan will forever be associated with the shiny, commercial strain of Latin pop she helped pioneer with her band Miami Sound Machine in the 1980s. This is a shame though, because in the years since Estefan has pushed beyond her early style to encompass straight dance music, adult contemporary balladry, and more traditional Spanish-language Latin fare.

90 MILLAS (2007) is a compilation gathering Estefan's roots-based efforts, with a special focus on the music of Cuba, Estefan's native country. On these 14 original Spanish-language tracks, the singer explores traditional Cuban forms and rhythms, while adding her own distinct crossover flair. While the material and performances are uniformly strong, it's the staggering guest list that makes 90 MILLAS shine. First flight Latin jazz artists Arturo Sandoval, Paquito D'Rivera, and Cachao, among others, spice the stew, and elsewhere Latin rock and pop stars familiar to American audiences put in appearances ("No Llores," for example, the album's first single, features contributions from Carlos Santana, Jose Feliciano, and Sheila E.). The result is an eminently listenable tribute to Estefan's heritage and the rich musical tradition of Cuba.