Rhythms del Mundo, 'Classics'

World
Rhythms del Mundo Classics
Decca
ESSENTIAL “Satisfaction’’

This charity disc for climate change has the superb Cuban music ensemble Rhythms del Mundo covering some great pop songs by either recording new tracks with the likes of KT Tunstall, the Killers, and OneRepublic or adding fresh musical interpretations under previously recorded vocals from Jack Johnson, Cat Power, the Rolling Stones, and Fall Out Boy. Like most compilations, it’s a mixed bag but some of the tricks are enchanting. They can’t do much with Johnson’s narcoleptic rendition of “Imagine,’’ and the take on “Hotel California’’ with the Killers captures the exoticism but none of the paranoia thanks to Brandon Flowers’s earnest vocals. “Walk on the Wild Side’’ with the Editors is a disaster. The best track includes the group’s subtle backdrop for Cat Power’s brilliant vocals on “Satisfaction.’’ Right up there is the ensemble’s natural swing with Amy Winehouse’s cover of “Cupid’’ (oh, how we miss her). But salsa-fied Queen (“Bohemian Rhapsody’’) tastes sour. Rhythms del Mundo’s version of “Purple Haze’’ has true fire, and the oddball cover of “Smells Like Teen Spirit’’ with young vocalist Shanade builds to a riveting piece. While some of these tracks are nowhere near classics, the best work here makes this more than just a worthwhile effort for a good cause. (Out tomorrow)