Sure, there's no sign of foot stomping. But otherwise Viva México! comes across a lot like a Mexican version of Riverdance. What Bill Whelan did for Celtic music, conductor Luis Cobos and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra do for his country's son, including a sweep of the arm toward Spanish and pre-Hispanic roots. The title cut gives a good indication of the grand scope of Cobos's vision as flamenco vocals and pre-Columbian flutes interweave to establish the twin rivers of Mexico's greatest cultural influences. On "El Son de Veracruz," violins joyfully substitute for the lead voice traditionally taken by the harp, though Cobos appropriately gives the folk harp its moment in the footlights on "El Arbol de la Noche Triste." The conductor's last release, Mexicano, saluted Mexican music past and present, but Viva México! ups the ante in sheer ambition if nothing else. Isn't that a nod to the climax of Rossini's The Thieving Magpie in a song called "Huapango"? It all cries out for a road show... complete with massed folkloric dancers. --Bob Tarte
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