……Its summertime in Chicago - people getting shot, traffic congestion, open hydrants, street dealers working their spots and a lot of craziness out here. It’s hot - into the 90s they say. I need to get away so I’m going to Humboldt Park to see what “El Corillo de Humboldt Park” is up to. The park is our world. Bacalaitos, frituras, alcapurrias and other treats are plentiful as well as a cold one someone is willing to sell you from their secret stash. As you near the park, you pass a group of older cats playing dominoes at a table set up on Division Street. The speakers from Lily’s Records blare a Gran Combo tune entertaining the neighborhood. As you enter the park, the sounds put you in the mood. A salsero is marking time with a cowbell to the sounds from the boom box he set up. People are camped out ignoring the mess that society has to deal with outside the confines of the park. Further up, the rhythm from the conga players are playing to the crowds in the park and draw you into their world. There is no stage, no speakers - the grass is sufficient. It is good enough to move the scantly clad females into salsa frenzy. “El Corillo” is here. This is la salsa de mi barrio at its best. Come on over and check it out. Be sure to click on the link to get the feel of it…
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