Horizontes, Music of Latin America:
Ruben Blades & Cheo Feliciano – Eba Say Aha
Two salsa music icons, Ruben Blades from Panama, and Cheo Feliciano from Puerto Rico, sing each others hits.
Chicha Libre – Canibalismo
Brooklyn-based group has revived ‘70s Andean cumbia music call “chicha” and taken it to a new level. A great party record.
Seu Jorge – Musicas Para Churrasco Vol. 1
Brazilian master of samba and funk with a distinctive voice releases best CD yet with nice elements of jazz as well.
Various Artists – Putumayo Presents Brazilian Beat
Very nice compilation of mostly up and coming Brazilian artists. Includes songs by Tita Lima and Roge, both known to Austin audiences through their SXSW performances.
Various Artists – Havana Cultura – The Search Continues
British DJ, Gilles Peterson, known for his Latin and Brazilian dance compilations, went to Cuba to make a compilation of new Cuban artists and and put together an all-star band as well. 2 great CDs.
Global Grooves:
Amadou& Mariam – Folila
Blind guitarist and singer from Mali collaborate with international pop artists Santigold, TV on the Radio, Theophilous London, and Bertrand Cantat while still remaining true to their African blues roots.
Anoushka Shankar – Traveller
Indian sitarist, daughter of Ravi, travels to Spain to explore the connections between Indian music and the gypsy flamenco music of Spain with singers Duquende and Cocha Buika among others.
Baloji – Kinshasa Succursale
Belgium-raised, Congo-born rapper returns home to record with musicians from his native land. The result is beautiful mix of hip-hop mixed with Congolese folk and popular music.
Canteca De Macao – Nunca Es Tarde
Spanish band mixes flamenco with cumbia, Cuban music, rock and jazz. Our favorite band at SXSW 2012.
Various Artists – The Rough Guide to Caribbean Café
An excellent compilation of popular music from all of the Caribbean islands and the countries on its coast.
