Tiahuanaco

Alfredo “El Inca” Linares is one of the most talented and beloved musicians in salsa history. Fans are drawn to his piano playing for its authentic Cuban feel and swing, paired with progressive arrangements and bold, uncompromising phrasing reminiscent of Eddie Palmieri. As a composer, arranger, and bandleader, Linares commands deep respect across the salsa world. Since the 1960s in Lima, Peru—where his career first took off—his records have consistently hit the mark: tight, sharp, and hard as hell. It’s what salseros call salsa brava con afinque. His 1973 anthem, ‘Tiahuanaco,’ is widely considered one of Linares’ greatest and most iconic tracks, receiving international releases at the time. Fruko (Julio Ernesto Estrada Rincón), the Renaissance Man of Colombian tropical music, included a version of the song on the original U.S. release of his critically acclaimed LP “A la Memoria del Muerto” (retitled “La Fruta Bomba” for the U.S. market…). Despite its undeniable dance floor appeal, this recording has never been released on a DJ friendly 45—until now! Here are two proper dance floor shakers for all the salsa heads out there, pressed on a 45 built to set the floor on fire!