Larry & Joe – Manos Panamericanos (self-release, 2024)
Larry Bellorín and Joe Troop present a cross-cultural collaboration through music on Manos Panamericanos (Pan American brothers). Bellorín, a celebrated harpist from Monagas, Venezuela, is a master of harp-driven llanera music, a joyful traditional genre from the Venezuelan plains. Meanwhile, Troop, from North Carolina, brings his expertise in bluegrass and old-time music with a touch of Argentine traditions as he lived in Argentina for a few years.
Now based in North Carolina’s Triangle region (Durham-Raleigh-Chapel Hill), this talented duo skillfully combine their distinct musical roots, highlighting their shared belief that music transcends borders. Throughout the album you’ll find a flavorful and highly persuasive mix of Venezuelan música llanera and joropo music, bluegrass, merengue, and chamber folk. Vocals are in Spanish with Venezuelan and Argentine accents, as well as in English.
Both accomplished multi-instrumentalists and songwriters, Larry and Joe aim to unite diverse audiences with their fraternal fusion of styles.
Musicians: Larry Bellorín on harp, cuatro, percussion, bass, güira, vocals; Joe Troop on banjo, fiddle, vocals; Nelson Echandía on bass; José Rendón on maracas; Mati Normandi on melodica; Beverly Botsford on congas; Tony Succar on cajón; Dermot Sheedy on bodhran; Sophie Wellington on percussive dance and vocals.
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Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.