The release of Ry Cooder's Buena Vista Social Club in 1997 once again ignited Latin music fever in the U.S. and spawned the release of a parade of albums under what became the Buena Vista Social Club trademark or Roots of Buena Vista. I often get asked which of these albums I'd recommend, so here's a list of albums you'll enjoy.
1. Buena Vista Social Club
Courtesy Nonesuch Records
Ry Cooder's original 1997 hit album, featuring Ibrahim Ferrer and Omara Portuondo. Just a lucky coincidence we ever got to hear these wonderful musicians; the originally scheduled band never showed up. 
2. BVSC Presents Omara Portuondo
Another of the original Social Club cast, this album contains wonderful, classic songs of the son genre. Also appearing on the album are Compay Segundo, Ibrahim Ferrer and Eliades Ochoa.3. BVSC Presents Ibrahim Ferrer
Ibrahim Ferrer was a featured singer on the original BVSC album and has a voice that echoes the sound of the island. This album is a treasure for your collection, especially since it's the last one; Ferrer died in August, 2005.4. Compay Segundo - Compay, Compay
The man who brought you "Chan Chan" was actually named Maximo Francisco Repilado Munoz (now there's a mouthful) and this album of his some of his greatest hits is a great way to wind down at the end of the day. Segundo died last July, but will always be remembered for his Borsalino-type hat and everpresent cigar.5. A Buena Vista: Barrio de la Habana
Buena Vista is a neighborhood in Havana with plenty of "pista" - literally meaning "trail", but colloquially describing a place where there's lots of action. The album puts young and old "soneros" side by side and is a great example of the old Havana classics.