With Latin-American dance music from: Colombia, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Trinidad & Brazil.
1. The Latin Brothers.
They are one of the best bands from Colombia whose style was influenced by the trombone of Oscar D’Leon from Venezuela. Conducted by Fruko, the legendary godfather of Colombian salsa, they released their first album in 1974. They then became a true breeding place for many well-known composers, musicians and singers, including Joe Arroyo and Piper Pimienta. The band especially has international fame by mixing classic salsa with fiery cumbia. CD. Sobre Las Olas van The Latin Brothers. Label: World Music Records / Riverboat Record (1998), code: TUGCD1017. Video
2. Gerardo Rosales.
The Venezuelan percussionist Gerardo Rosales began his musical career at the end of the 70s and played in the biggest orchestras of his country. In 1992 he permanently settled in the Netherlands and he is touring around the world since then. Gerardo Rosales recorded 17 CDs with his band and over 70 CDs with other musicians. He is specialized in Latin jazz, salsa and Cuban, Venezuelan and Caribbean rhythms. CD. Señor Tambó van Gerardo Rosales. Label: A-Records (1998), code: AL73137. Video
3. Merengue & Bachata.
This CD is filled with happy and infectious music from the Dominican Republic, which is danced to in dance halls and on the street. New dance traditions originate almost on a daily basis in the streets, and at cafes across the country. The root of merengue is bachata, historic folk music from the Caribbean. CD. The Rough Guide to Merengue & Bachata. Label: WMN / The Rough Guide (2001), code: RGNET1039CD. Video
4. Los De Abajo.
The most famous fusion band from Mexico is back in a new formation with merely five members of the old band, but they still sound distinguishing and energetic. Los De Abajo is specialized in variety and are able to switch between different styles, from brassy (a loud and hard sound) to hip hop, from traditional Mexican styles to salsa and acoustic guitar with global influences. We hear Odisea Valenzuela’s powerful voice in the songs Actitud Calle (‘street attitude’) or La Patriota. The band is also known for their strong views. CD. Actitud Calle van Los De Abajo. Label: Wrasse Records (2009), code: WRASS269. Video
5. Calypso Gold.
Calypso is an art form from Trinidad, rooted in Africa, but it also has roots in the West Indian slave culture. One of the biggest Calypso hits was from the Andrews Sisters in the 50s with the title Rum & Coca-Cola, but Mathilda, Scandal in the Family and Mary Ann were also worldwide hits. This CD compilation also explores a couple of interesting small side streets – calypso in French and in Creole. CD. The Rough Guide to Calypso Gold. Label: WMN / The Rough Guide (2008), code: RGNET1213. Video
6. It’s Illegal, It’s Immoral or It Makes You Fat!
In 2001 Harlekijn Records brought out an album including recordings which haven’t been published before, performed by England’s popular Afro-Scottisch-Venezuelan dance bandleader Edmundo Ros. Most songs on the CD are from the 60s and have a singer who usually is Edmundo Ros himself. Highlights are including What is this Thing Called Love?, Watermelon Man and 16 ton. . CD. It’s Illegal, It’s Immoral or It Makes You Fat! van Edmundo Ros. Label: Harlequin (2001), code HQCD177. Video
7. Samba, Bossa Nova.
An eclectic compilation that shows the evolution of the African-derived Brazilian samba and its offspring, the bossa nova. The awakaning new-wave in the Brazilian music that started in the year 2000, keeps growing, a new generation reinterpret and redefines the classic ideas of samba and bossa nova. This album guarantees to give you ‘a good feeling’. CD. Putumayo presents: Samba, Bossa Nova. Label: Putumaya (2002), code: PUT195-2. Video
8. Da Lata.
A British band formed in 1994 by Chris Franck and Patrick Forge. They combine Afro-Brazilian influences with other parts from the melting pot from their own London. Chris Franck is the most important creative force as a songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist, while Patrick Forge is the co-producer. CD. Rio Vida & Rain song van Da Lata. Label: Juni Records. Video
