Born in 1923 in the popular resort town of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, José Manuel Cobles began a career as a carpenter. His work led him around the island until he settled in Santiago. At age 24, he dipped into his savings and bought his first guitar for 20 pesos. However, it wasn't until 2006 at the age of 83 that the musician nicknamed after his hometown would record his first album. On Mujer de Cabaret, Cobles combines the wisdom of a veteran with the vigour of a beginner. His rich musical potpourri includes bolero, merengue, ranchera, bachata, salsa and, most notably, son.