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.
world music
Neba Solo and Benego Diakité Are Masters of Their Traditions
Neba Solo and Benego Diakité have a subtle leadership, guiding other musicians who record with them, filling out ten gently intricate tracks with aural warmth.
Da Cruz Revolutionize the Dancefloor on ‘Som Sistema’
The combination of African, South American, and Caribbean pop styles, timely themes, and impeccable club vibes make Da Cruz’s new album the best yet.
Sonetos del Amor Oscuro Brilliantly Set Lorca to Music
Sonetos del Amor Oscuro adapt seven Lorca works into six artful tracks that interpret not only the words but the spirit of his final works to poignant effect.
Guitarist Steve Tibbetts Creates Beautiful Chaos
The remarkably original Steve Tibbetts discusses his process and inspirations, and where he will take this guitar to conjure even more truly singular statements.
Imarhan Brilliantly Re-Invent Their Sound on ‘Essam’
Algeria’s Imarhan may be one of tishoumaren’s most dynamic contemporary acts, and on Essam, they only get more interesting.
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.
Wesli Follows Diasporic Threads Through Haiti
With Makaya, Wesli places Haiti on a deeply interconnected world map and underscores the power of creative acts of solidarity and revolution.
Da Lata Celebrate 25 Years with ‘Edge of Blue’
Da Lata’s music is warm, soulful, and made in collaboration with artists working with musical styles that have emerged from African-Brazilian interchanges.
Sessa Harnesses Soulful Sparks on Gorgeous LP
Sessa makes magic. Refreshing musical subtleties and emotional complexities make Peqeuna Vertigem de Amor worth repeat listens.
Yalla Miku Pack a Cosmopolitan Punch on ‘2’
The music fascinates and scintillates. 2 is an exciting new step for Yalla Miku as the group harness their collective chemistry and finds ways to elevate it.
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.