Lucas Santtana Champions Brazilian Language on ‘Brasiliano’
Politically and philosophically, Lucas Santtana’s Brasiliano demonstrates wondrous clarity of purpose and boasts consummate musicianship.
world music
Dorea’s Second Album Is Vulnerable and Seaworthy
Dorea draws on his experience as a lifelong resident of Salvador, on Brazil’s Atlantic coast. He sounds like the sea: alternately gentle, rough, and unpredictable.
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.
Tinariwen’s ‘Hoggar’ Is a Brilliant, Bittersweet Homecoming
Tinariwen’s music is perhaps more poignant than ever, made with a reverence for history and a sense of community that grows stronger over time.
Los Sara Fontán Fight for a DIY Future on ‘Consuelo’
Los Sara Fontán sound a possible future that can only come through agitation and a total reworking of society, that requires an intentional storm to clear the air.
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.
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.