If you were to ask me to write everything I know about Dominica merengue, I probably wouldn't be able to fill one side of a folded cocktail napkin. Why then am I writing about a Domincan merengue accordion player? I'm doing it because this is a tremendous example of what is so great about music. Namely, that while music is something you listen to, it is also something you feel. Joaquin Diaz will definitely make you feel something. Probably, he will make you feel like dancing.

Most of the lyrics on this Mi Corazon (Nuits d'Afrique Records, 2006) are beyond my Spanish comprehension, but you know something? That doesn't matter. I don't have to understand the lyrics to feel what Joaquin Diaz puts into his songs. These are uptempo, bright songs with a healthy dose of horns to go with Diaz's accordion. And say what you want about the accordion (it has gotten a terrible rap as an instrument that is the antithesis of hip), but this guy plays at a pace that would be hard to keep up with if you're dancing to it.

While I may not be able to give a dissertation about Domincan merengue, I know one thing. this is the kind of guy you would like to have play at a party because he will keep all the attendants dancing (at least until they are worn out) and having a good time. How do I know the participants would have a good time? I guess that's because it seems virtually impossible to be in a bad mood when you're listening to this. Step outside of what you might normally listen to and give this album a shot. It will boost your mood and maybe even your fitness level if you are keeping up with the tempo