Cuban born but Quebec based, pianist Andy Rubal swings and scorches through “Cantarle un Son,” a salsa fusion track hot enough to ward off the…
Savory Salsa Fusion by Cuba’s Andy Rubal
Author: Tom Orr
Tom Orr is a California-based writer whose talent and mental stability are of an equally questionable nature. His hobbies include ignoring trends, striking dramatic poses in front of his ever-tolerant wife and watching helplessly as his kids surpass him in all desirable traits.
Tyrone Sturk’s Fundamental Reggae Vibes
A singer of Jamaican/British artistry, the interestingly-named Tyrone Sturk spells out simple but essential reggae wisdom with “The Spirit,” doing so with a vocal style…
Trumpeter Morris Northcutt Celebrates Latin Coffee Culture on “Moliendo Café”
On “Moliendo Café,” U.S. trumpeter Morris Northcutt does some master playing over a crisp and lush Latin backing. Vintage and modern textures coexisting in the…
Loham’s Enchanting Brazilian Grooves on “Barulhinho Bom”
A jaunty acoustic journey into the familiarities of MPB,”Barulhinho Bom” by Brazil’s Loham features keenly committed vocals, equally conversant percussion and a good deal more…
Gratifying Raga by The Mystic Radio
Long but rewarding, “Raga Bhairavi” by an American duo called The Mystic Radio is a guitar and percussion journey through Indian-inspired soundscapes majestic and inspiring.
Inventive Samba Variation by John Finbury
Composed and produced by American John Finbury and sung by Brazilian Bruna Black, “Vã Revelação” (“Vain Revelation”) gives the familiar warmth of samba an extra…
Genuine Reggae by Denmark’s Total Hip Replacement
I’d give them high marks for a great band name even if their music didn’t do a thing for me, but the authentic reggae sound…
Easygoing Afro-samba by Pedro Bezerra
A moody, mellow take on Afro-samba with prominent piano and airy vocals,”Na Beira do Mar” by Brazil’s Pedro Bezerra shows just how resilient and satisfying…
Arnito and Adama Koeta Deliver Skillful Guitar and Kora Dialog
Prolific French guitarist Arnito duets with kora player Adama Koeta on “After Work,” a deftly played piece of music that bridges African, flamenco, Roma, and…
Katara Dazzles with West African Grooves
An instrumental called “Ophelia” by American duo Katara scores big points with its skittering rhythm, West African feel, echoey production values and some of the…