Gran Combo, the most successful Salsa orchestra in Puerto Rico's history, approaches their fifth decade with "Aqui Estamos Y...Verdad!", their first CD for Sony/BMG.  The mere presence of El Gran Combo on the Tropical scene has been indispensable for the continued evolution of Salsa.  The end of the 70's and the beginning of the 80's can be considered the most prolific and significant years with hit after hit album, multi-platinum sales and sold out international tours, securing El Gran Combo's place in Latin music history. In addition to all their recording successes, for the past 40 years the group has never stopped touring, with sold out shows worldwide including 20 performances at Madison Square Garden.  The quantity of awards won by El Gran Combo is as long as their discography, but as their leader Rafael Ithier said so well, "The awards are a good measure of affection, respect and love, but the true reward is to see people dancing and enjoying themselves.  That is El Gran Combo's "reason for being.""