Doctor Nativo Explores Maya Identity on ‘BarrioKandela’
Doctor Nativo explores Maya identity emphasizing contemporary Mexican genres alongside musical styles developed throughout the Central American region.
latin music
Javier Nero Blends Modern Elements with Big Band Jazz
Javier Nero’s Alkebulan is state-of-the-art big band jazz, which he discusses with us. Nero uses the large ensemble for color, contrast, power, and momentum.
Jorge Drexler Performs His Homecoming Dance
Internationally renowned artist Jorge Drexler returned to his native Uruguay, but this time he came to dance and tell us about it.
Nuevos Ríos Debut with Astonishing Takes on Tradition
Nuevos Ríos’ debut emerges from organic processes of collaboration that treat local cultural expressions not as samples but as relevant contemporary music.
Mariachi El Bronx Suit Up Again After a Decade Away
While the idea of hard-core gringo rockers Mariachi El Bronx covering the hyper-emotional Mexican genre might seem like a goof, the musicians dove in and took it seriously.
The Red Universe of Mari Jasca: Song, Circus, and Soul
Brazilian singer-songwriter and circus performer Mari Jasca is a lover of the Latin American song ideal. She discusses her musical inspirations and songwriting.
Carminho Expands Portuguese Fado’s Boundaries
Carminho says Portuguese fado is, in some ways, analogous to punk because of its spontaneity and spilling over of raw emotions.
iLe’s Boleros Give Women a Powerful Voice
iLe’s vocal outpouring makes the boleros seem like cousins to flamenco or Portuguese fado, which aim to express deep and powerful emotions.
Coco Maria Curates in Full Color on New Compilation
Coco Maria is a genuine selector: knowledgeable and curious. Her Club Coco series has long offered a soundscape going beyond smooth background beats.
Los Bitchos’ ‘Talkie Talkie’ Is a Genre-Defying Celebration
Los Bitchos’ Talkie Talkie builds an immersive experience with a larger narrative. They challenge the conventions of rock through sound and representation.
Puerto Rico’s iLe Transforms From Rappers’ Kid Sister to Bolero Warrior
Formerly the sole female vocalist in rap group Calle 13, iLe has turned into a Latin alternative firebrand, pushing her art and her politics in exciting ways.
Rodrigo Amarante on the Joys of Interpretation in Latin Music
Award-winning Brazilian musician Rodrigo Amarante talks with PopMatters about diversifying Latin sounds and ringing the political alarm in Brazil.