DAY 4541 - Arpa

 

Artwork by Paula Duró

Tek Roc’s “Yayaya” is a Konpa-Cumbia Revolution

Tek Roc’s “Yayaya” is a Konpa-Cumbia Revolution   

by John Aaron Coulter

Something’s brewing in Brooklyn’s backrooms — a wild, genre-unifying, revolution.  “Yayaya,” the newest track by Tek Roc, is a radiant combustion of konpa and cumbia, channeling psychedelic synths and sassy strings.  “Yayaya” is an explosion of sound that doesn’t just cross borders — it vaporizes them.

Superduo Leo Joseph “Minimum Tek” Mintek and Ronnie Roc are Tek Roc, virtuosic veterans of the city’s underground Latin and global scenes — known for sets that veer from folkloric to futuristic.  With crackling chemistry and cosmic chops, Leo locks down lush layers of guitar and bass while Ronnie rips up rhythmic storms on percussion and keys.  Mintek and Roc have collaborated with powerhouses such as Grupo Descarrilao, NuFolk Rebel Alliance, Los Coulters, and Gogol Bordello —a testament to their ethnomusical prowess and creative genius.  Their fingerprints are all over the musical mosaic that is NYC’s live circuit, shaping and defining the sound of the city.

With “Yayaya,” Tek Roc distills Afro-Caribbean percussion, fuzzy barroom cumbia, and smooth synths into a gritty and hypnotic tour de force that builds from a montuno core into a swirling dubscape.  The extended mix is full of delicious breakdowns and solos.  Think Neil Young, Caifanes, and Alan Cavé jamming in a smoke-filled club, set somewhere between Port-au-Prince and Queens.

While “Yayaya” is THE moment, Tek Roc’s creative catalogue is well worth a dig.  Their 2022 EP Time Travelers offers an alternative, borderless vision — taboo weavings of chicha, flamenco, Tex-Mex, outlaw country, and more gallop across time-warped tracks that encompass flavors akin to The Thirteenth Floor Elevators, Johnny Cash, and Chicha Libre.  The whole album is overflowing with juicy, dynamic and diverse percussion.  Time Travelers’ alluring titular track is both foreign and familiar — cultureless, but not uncultured — presenting an unknown tradition.  Recent cuts like “Another Journey” and “Dulce Gouyad” explore further dimensions — from haunting Haitian electro-funk to outrun and jungle grooves.

“Yayaya” is the word of the day.  The answer to X.  A bold mission statement and a reminder that the dancefloor has always been a meeting place for magic.  DJs and general enjoyers of music are going to want to get their hands on this fire summer anthem.

“Yayaya” is freedom.  

@tek.roc

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUJ-bzGSdD100O4lUxX4tqg

https://maximumcollabo.bandcamp.com/album/yayaya

https://maximumcollabo.bandcamp.com/

DAY 4472 - Humdinger Folksingers

 

Artwork by Kristen Liu-Wong

NEW MUSIC RELEASE - Wire Dreams by Gizz Van Buskirk

    Wire Dreams by Gizz Van Buskirk - Available NOW.
 


Apple Music

Spotify

SoundCloud

Youtube

Instagram

Chupacabra GBC - New Video Game by John Coulter

Chupacabra GBC

Just in time for Halloween season!  Chupacabra GBC is a new rhythm video game featuring L.A.’s coolest musicians.  Creative remixes and demakes of popular songs - adapted for Game Boy’s Hardware and sound chips.  Play in English or Spanish. Unlock hidden tunes.  Learn about new bands and music groups.

Music by -
Discos Resaca Collective.
El Santo Golpe.
La Mera Candelaria.
Spaghetti Cumbia.
Los Coulters.

Chupacabra is free to play on phone, in browser, or to download.  Try to beat your best score!

Link to game - https://aibioweapon.itch.io/chupacabra

Teaser -

Full Soundtrack -


Support independent artists and musicians.

@sharks_eat_meat
@aibioweapon
@loscoulters
@markloscoulters
@discosresaca
@la.mera.candelaria
@elsantogolpe
@spaghetticumbia
@josecandelaria
@mariposasdelalma510
@flacoeljandro

MUSIC REVIEW: MUJERONA - La Mera Candelaria

 MUSIC REVIEW:  MUJERONA - La Mera Candelaria -

Los Angeles’s Queen of Cumbia, La Mera Candelaria, has a brand new, ten-track, album, “Mujerona,” out, just in time for summer.

“Mujerona” is a profound and eclectic collection of Afro-Latino rhythms such as salsa, cumbia, son, vallenato, bachata, and more.  The worldly songs pay respect to musical tradition while pushing into original territory by confidently mixing rhythms and telling new narratives.  The tracks are excellent across diverse genres, from humble natural sounding acoustic tracks, to distorted, urban, electronic sounds.  La Mera Candelaria generates a fresh sound uniquely a part of the Los Angeles and Californian melting pot.

The womxn fronted group has never sounded better.  The immaculate studio-quality recording allows their extraordinary vocals and instrumentation to shine.  The high fidelity allows for Stephani’s texture, timber, and full range to impressively convey emotion, passion and power through song.  While the entire album is stellar, some of my favorite tracks are: “Donde Estan las Mujeres,” “Toypurina,” “Mi Cuerpo Es Mío,” “Di Su Nombre,” and “Ruca de Aquellas.”

1. Por Que Te Dicen la Mera
The album begins with “Por Que Te Dicen La Mera,” an uplifting, tropical vallenato with supporting accordion and keyboard melodies and a charged contemporary breakdown.
“Por Que Te Dicen La Mera” is a strong start for an album that only gets grander and better as it progresses.

2. Tovaangar
“Tovaangar” is a soulful vallenato with a bold and complementary vocal duet.  The dynamic percussion solo pushes the Atlantic Coastal sound to the forefront in this song.

3. Toypurina
“Toypurina” is my favorite song from “Mujerona.”  Toypurina was a Gabrielino medicine woman who rebelled against Spanish colonizers in California.  La Mera Candelaria’s “Toypurina” is a merengue with a sense of urgency and movement fit for the theme of resistance.  The chorus is rich, full, and memorable.  The uplifting bass and percussion are reminiscent of the beats of Two Man Sound or fellow Angelenos El Santo Golpe.

4. Donde Están las Mujeres
“Donde Están las Mujeres” is a sultry, smoky, psychedelic rock cumbia that pays homage to the likes of Caifanes and Maná.  Cumbias such as these are a clear strength of the group.  The distorted electric guitar is deliciously murky and surfy, while being elegantly sharp.  This smooth blend of metal and Latin has been championed by bands such as Making Movies and Santana.

5. Mi Cuerpo Es Mío
“Mi Cuerpo Es Mío” is a bluesy, bolero that is guitar and singer/songwriter-centric.  The crisp fidelity of the recording and production captures Stephani’s rich, complex, hauntingly sorrowful yet beautiful vocals, which are strong and heartfelt like a Siren.  This song stands out as a work of artistry.

6. Di Su Nombre
“Di Su Nombre” is an outstanding song.  Las Chicas del Can, this is not.  La Mera Candelaria delivers a striking cumbia and cha cha cha infused bachata with a flair that only they can.  It’s wonderful to hear bachata and other rhythms woven harmoniously and palatably together on the same track.  Stephani’s vocal power, timbre and range expand a genre that has been dominated by New York men whispering in falsetto over bachata samples for decades.  Don’t miss out on this absolutely phenomenal song.

7. 27 de Enero (Yo Te Cielo)
“27 de Enero (Yo Te Cielo)” is a lighter, relaxing vallenato track that confidently blends Caribbean percussion and accordion structures with acoustic pop and gospel elements similar to the Indigo Girls.  

8.  Mujerona
“Mujerona’s” titular track is a punchy salsa with a touch of samba.  This song has complex musical movements that build and change in classical progressions and tone towards a more playful contemporary salsa arrangement.

9.  El Tóxico
“El Tóxico” is a smooth Cuban Timba with salsa elements.  The piano and accordion accompaniment is brilliant.

10.  Ruca de Aquellas
The final track on the album marks a departure from some of the stylistic repertoire of the group.  While La Mera Candelaria is never shy from blending traditional acoustic sounds with synthy or rocking electric textures, “Ruca de Aquellas” fully embraces the Urbano style of Reggaton and Dembow, with remarkable success.  Stephani brings a robust raw energy not often found in the genre.  This track has all the flavor and charm of veteran reggaetonistas MULA or Ms. Nina.  As a finale, “Ruca de Aquellas,” lands firmly and finishes epically.

“Mujerona” takes you on a rhythmic journey across the Americas that solidifies La Mera Candelaria’s breadth, range, and ability to update and modernize diverse traditions.  “Mujerona” is an impressive, jam-packed album that is easy to listen to the whole way through.  The album is fun and full of surprises.  “Mujerona” is fantastic for driving, workplace jams, or a day outdoors.  La Mera Candelaria is a treat to experience live, giving an unforgettable performance that always has crowds dancing.  The entire band’s talents shine throughout the album, with sharp tres work, delightful accordion melodies, and lightning-quick congas and timbales.

Mujerona is available now to purchase and on streaming platforms.  These new tunes come with SharksEatMeat’s highest recommendation.  

Links
https://lameracandelaria.org/
https://www.instagram.com/la.mera.candelaria/
https://music.apple.com/ca/album/mujerona/1735963718
https://open.spotify.com/artist/78B222PvMskJuGFOeFD0fv
https://lameracandelaria.bandcamp.com/

FULL ALBUM CREDITS -

Stephani Candelaria - Lead Vocals
Abel Canel - Timbales, Mixed Percussion
Erik-G - Vocals, Keyboards, Mixed Percussion
Anita Garay - Congas, Background Vocals
Justin Inbar - Tres, Guitars
Mario Leal - Bass
Charles Derek Beach - Bass
Tristan Gajate-Garcia - Bass
Richie Gajate-Garcia - Mixed Percussion

All songs written by Stephani Candelaria, Abel Canel, and Erik-G

Produced by Erik-G and Abel Canel
Mixed and Mastered by Erik-G Artwork by Stephani Candelaria Copyright © 2024 La Mera Candelaria
All Rights Reserved c/s

NEW MUSIC - Funky Frijoles

Funky Frijoles - Victor Rendón & Bronx Conexión Latin Jazz Big Band



Just in time for summer Victor Rendón & The Bronx Conexión Latin Jazz Big Band have released a new album titled “Funky Frijoles.”  Full of eight hardy songs with homages to the greats such as Tito Puente and Benny More.

All the tracks are original compositions with the exclusion of “Malaguena Salerosa,” a classic by Miguel Aceves Miejía.  The Bronx Conexión’s moody New York flavored rendition is a refreshing take.

“Funky Frijoles” has an impressively thick, full horn section, energetic crisply clean stereo percussion, and intricate and sophisticated solos and progressive movements throughout each track.  The whole album is great for a relaxing day in the sun or nighttime dance party.  Many tracks are bright, playful, and uplifting, and even the moody or brooding parts are delightfully rhythmic.

Some of my favorite tracks are “!Basta!,” “Funky Frijoles,” and “Bomba Dreams.”  “!Basta!” is a punchy, Tito Puente inspired mambo with bold timbales and a hot sax section by Paul Carlon.  “Funky Frijoles” is a syncopated groove punctuated with jazzy salsa motifs.  The blending of styles is what New York Latin Jazz is all about.  “Bomba Dreams,” a moody sicá from the Puerto Rican bomba genre has lightning quick free flowing wild woodwind and brass solos.

“Morningside” is another stand-out track, with impressively punchy tropical solos that
don’t disappoint.  “Bronx Detour” is an old school melodic mambo with blues themes that are sure to entertain.  Slower songs such as the “The Moment,” a smooth ballad with bolero flair and “Black Water” an Afro-Cuban bembé with heavy horn harmonies, dark tones, and sassy horn solos round out the outstanding album.

Lively energetic album art accompanies the music by band leader Victor Rendón’s son, Victor Manuel Rendón, also a talented musician.  As an artist and musician, Victor’s art always has a perfect sense of visual rhythm and well-balanced compositions.

If you enjoy classic mambo, salsa and jazz, the group’s acclaimed previous albums “Mambo Boulevard” and “True Flight,” are a real treat.  Visit the band’s website to listen and learn more.  The album is available directly from the band, Apple music and YouTube.  For all your art and culture news make sure to follow SharksEatMeat.

Band Website - https://bronxconexion.com/
Funky Frijoles - https://bronxconexion.com/cds-downloads


Album Credits -
Victor Rendon - timbales, timbalitos, bateria, bata (iya)
Wilson "Chembo" Corniel - congas, guiro, bata (itotele)
Cascadú - shekere, dundun, clave, bata (okonkolo)
Yasuko Kimura - bongo, cencerro, maraca
Jessica Valiente-flauta
Al Acosta, Jorge Castro - saxofon alto
Paul Carlon, Joe Stelluti, Peter Brainin - saxofon tenor
Karl Watson - saxofon baritono
Michael Viñas - bajo
Guido Gonzalez, Anibal Martinez, Kathleen Doran, Marck McGowan - trompeta
Rick Faulkner, Leonard Walworth, David Chamberlain - trombon
George Saenz - trombon bajo
Joe Mannozzi - piano
Victor Manuel Rendon - album art

LoFi Fire - Music Review

LoFi Latin Jazz:  New Release from Leo Joseph, of the Leo Joseph Experience.



Leo Joseph, also known as Leo Minimum Tek, manages their own recording label, Maximum Collabo Records. Leo has regularly performed and recorded with artists such as Gogol Bordello, Grupo Descarrilao, NuFolk Rebel Alliance, Salsa Rockers, Los Coulters, The Leo Joseph Trio, and more.  Leo is a treat to see perform live, bringing high energy to the stage.  His diversely complex riffs, solos that shine with surprising and dynamic movements, and mastery of many genres make him a formidable performer.

Leo’s new three-track EP is available on Spotify, Bandcamp, and more. There is a “Fireplace Ambience” video of the new recordings, available on Youtube in 4K.  The soothing video is by Jane Courage and El Bofo Xavier - perfect to put on for some afternoon work, or a relaxing evening.  The charming cover art by Juan Ortega, based on a photo by Jane Courage captures the essence of the music.

Leo has given us three covers - Let’s take a look at each.

Mayeya (Mongo Santamaria)
This New York Jazz standard originally had the legends Mongo Satamaria on percussion and Charlie Palmieri on the piano.  The memorable tune has similar uplifting punchy horns to another standard, “Chan Chan.”  Leo offers a more suave, relaxing version of the Salsa/Boogaloo classic.  His bluesy guitar work is playful and polished.  The track has a light tropical vibe that’s easy to enjoy.

Little Sunflower (Freddie Hubbard)
“Little Sunflower” was originally recorded by Freddie Hubbard in 1967. The upbeat Tito Puente cover from 1992 is a version more may be familiar with.  Leo’s version of “Little Sunflower” is a really beautiful recording that is haunting and psychedelic in tone, similar to a Yardbirds or Incredible String Band jam. The song is slightly somber and shifts through distinct movements as if on a journey.

Y Ya La Quiero (Joe Henderson)
“Y Ya La Quiero” is originally from the 1985 album “The State of Tenor: Vol. 2,”, by Joe Henderson an avant-guard bebop and jazz artist.  The song has an iconic opening riff, that aficionados will be familiar with and moves on to highly improvised, yet tight and controlled sax solos.  Leo interprets the tenor sax madness on guitar with grace, bravado, and respect for the original melodies.

Check out Leo Joseph’s newest content, don’t miss him live if you have the chance,
and add these to your streaming mixes and give them a play. These tracks are highly recommended.

Bandcamp

Youtube Video

DAY 4300 - Matador 003

 

Ai Art by Aibioweapon

DAY 4280 - El Cazador II 02

 

Ai Art by Aibioweapon

MUSIC REVIEW - "Collisions In The Dark" GIZZ VAN BUSKIRK

 

   Collisions In The Dark is a new 12 track album from Gizz Van Buskirk that is full of creative electronic synths and sharp guitar work.  Released in August 2023, the whole album is worth spending some time with.  While a bit of a genre-blender, the album is cohesive and has a unified voice.  In Collisions In The Dark, retro and progressive, sound-scapes and melodies, and acoustic and synth comfortably meet.  Fans of Vaporwave and Italodisco, or bands such as New Order, Eyeliner, Disasteradio, Molchat Dolma, or Lazerhawk are sure to enjoy Van Buskirk’s work.  The melodies are full of movement and surprise, as well as classical and jazz style progressions and changes.  The ambient tracks often contain a soundtrack quality fitting for a film, television or a video game score.  

   The album begins with “Downpour ’82,” an 80’s filled homage with anthem rock guitar ballads and heavy synths.  My favorite tracks on the album are “Small Hours,” “Exit Velocity,” “Better Living (Through Chemistry),” “The Night Shift,” and “Collisions in the Dark.”  These tracks all showcase cinematic otherworldly electronic melodies that stand out in a recent sea of Vaporwave.  “Small Hours” smoothly transitions from ambient atmospheric harmonies, to stranger industrial, and almost Prince-esque, Italo-disco pop.  The percussion is complex, and always moving.  “Exit Velocity” starts right off with a catchy hook and follows with cornucopia of diverse crunchy textures and sounds.  This upbeat song feels like a new song right out of a retro SEGA Sonic level with the production value of electronic hits like The Faint’s “Fasciinatiion” album.  “Better Living (Through Chemistry)” builds up quick and gets caught in your head instantly.  The bubbly synths and percussion are tight and well crafted. With moody harmonies, this complex melody-centered song bears similarities to early Depeche Mode tracks.  “The Night Shift” features atmospheric Tchaicovsky-ian bells with a mysterious otherness and exoticness reminiscent of “The White Lotus” theme song.

   The titular “Collisions in the Dark” is one of the strongest on the album, highlighting a variety of Buskirk’s abilities.  The song begins with a John Carpenter/ Blade Runner style soundscape and builds into an atonal synth Gary Numan-esque jam. The composition as a whole is excellent. The moodier sections have the best qualities of famed video game soundtracks such as GoldenEye and Metroid Prime.  The finale act of the song’s use of atonal harsh synth solo leads are intelligent and blend well with the rest of the composition.  “Collisions in the Dark” is easily my favorite of an album that is already full of treats.

   Several tracks on the album such as, “The Drift,” “The Love We Deserve,” “Salad Days,” and “How Can You Sleep?” uniquely combine acoustic guitar with synthesizer accompaniment in a refreshing experimental way.  “The Drift” boasts haunting and complex guitar work that harkens to the Yardbirds, or Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young.  “The Love We Deserve” is distinctly a work of Gizz Van Buskirk and has a charming quality similar to electronic Tejano Chicano classics such as Little Joe and the Familia or the rural video game “Harvest Moon’s” soundtrack.  “How Can you Sleep? (Piano + Cello Version)” is another work fitting for a film score and a fitting conclusion to the 12-track collection.

   Collisions In The Dark is full of powerful, memorable synth punches and softer acoustic works which are strangely alluring.  The album showcases Buskirk’s mastery of synth sounds and their versatile, clean, and competent guitar work.  Give the album a listen using the links included below.  To learn more about independent, underground and alternative music, make sure to follow SharksEatMeat for all your art and culture news.


INSTAGRAM - @gizzvanbuskirk

SOUNDCLOUD

YOUTUBE

APPLE

Ai Music Review : Spaghetti Cumbia

   Spaghetti Cumbia, a Los Angeles-based cumbia band, presents a unique sound that blends rock, country western, and cumbia in a way that's both refreshing and exciting.  Their style is reminiscent of the iconic group "Mi Banda el Mexicano," who brought cumbia to the forefront of Latin music in the '80s. Spaghetti Cumbia's hit songs "Spaghetti Empire" and "Caballito" showcase the band's talent for mixing different genres while keeping the essence of cumbia intact.

  "Spaghetti Empire" and "Caballito" are standout tracks with a unique sound. The catchy, upbeat tunes blend rock and cumbia in a way that's both nostalgic and fresh, with a cowboy twist.  “Spaghetti Empire,” showcases the band's ability to create danceable tracks that will get any crowd moving.  The band's use of catchy hooks and choruses make their songs instantly memorable, and their live shows are a high-energy experience that will leave you wanting more.  “Caballito,” is a musical journey through the sounds of the Southwest and Latin America - creating a unique sound that is equal parts traditional cumbia and American country-western.  The result is a fresh and exciting take that is both familiar and new. The band's use of Spanish and English lyrics adds to the album's diverse and inclusive feel.

  The band's music is a true celebration of cross-cultural influences, combining the sounds of different regions and traditions to create something entirely new.  Their music is a testament to the power of diversity and inclusion, proving that great things can happen when people come together with open hearts and minds.  Spaghetti Cumbia's fusion of genres reflects the cultural melting pot that is Los Angeles, and their music is a perfect representation of the city's spirit.  Spaghetti Cumbia is a band to watch out for.  Their fusion of rock, country, and cumbia is a breath of fresh air in a world where musical genres are often rigidly defined. 

   Music Review written with Ai by Aibioweapon.

Ai Music Review : El Santo Golpe

  El Santo Golpe is a rising star in the Los Angeles cumbia scene.  Recent release “La Cosecha,” which was featured in the soundtrack of the Tom Hank’s film A Man Called Otto, showcases the band's unique sound and musical vision.  The song is a journey through the many different styles of cumbia, from the classic sounds of Colombia to the modern beats of Mexico and California.  The band's use of accordion, percussion, and vocals create a dynamic and energetic listening experience that will keep you moving from start to finish.

  Another one of El Santo Golpe’s standout tracks, “Porque Sera,” embodies the band's ability to blend different styles of folkloric music seamlessly.  The band's use of traditional instruments like the accordion and percussion give their sound an authentic feel, while their modern production techniques and rhythmic bass groove keep things fresh and exciting.  El Santo Golpe is a band that is not afraid to experiment with different sounds and styles, and “Porque Sera” is a testament to their fearless approach to music-making.

  El Santo Golpe’s unique sound and innovative approach to Latin music have earned them a dedicated following and critical acclaim.  A must-listen for anyone who is looking for something fresh and exciting in the world of Latin music.  El Santo Golpe is a band to watch in the coming years, and I can't wait to see what they have in store for us next.

Music Review written with Ai by Aibioweapon.

Ai Music Review : Los Coulters

   Los Coulters have breathed new life into the cumbia scene with their experimental take on the genre.  Their latest album, Lo Tek Olmec, is not for the faint of heart, and is a daring experiment that defies genre conventions.  Their music is a wild and unpredictable ride through uncharted sonic territories.  The band's use of traditional beats, psychedelic riffs, and haunting sax create an otherworldly atmosphere that is both mesmerizing and infectious.

   One of the standout features of Los Coulters' music is the prominent use of the saxophone.  This instrument adds a jazzy, improvisational feel to many of their songs, and sets them apart from other Latin rock bands that rely more heavily on guitar and keyboard.  In tracks like “Kenny 5G,” the saxophone takes center stage, showcasing John Coulter’s skills.  Another key aspect of Los Coulters' sound is their use of dynamic, energetic drumming.  Mark Coulter’s driving rhythms provide a solid foundation for the rest of the band to build on and help create a sense of urgency and excitement in many of their songs.  This can be heard in tracks like “Mass Surveillance,” which features a fast-paced beat that is impossible not to dance to.  While Los Coulters have a distinct sound that sets them apart from other Latin rock bands, there are still some clear influences that can be heard in their music. For example, their use of saxophone draws comparisons to Fito Olivares, while their brilliant drumming and danceable rhythms are reminiscent of Los Lobos.

   n addition to their impressive musical skills, Los Coulters also have a strong visual aesthetic that is evident in their album artwork and animated music videos. The cover of Lo Tek Olmec features a colorful design by Anna Frischknecht that captures the band's lively, eclectic style. Meanwhile, their music videos, such as “Killer App,” utilize cutting-edge Ai animation techniques.

   Los Coulters are not afraid to take risks, and their boldness pays off in a truly unique listening experience. “Killer App” is a mesmerizing blend of traditional cumbia rhythms and otherworldly soundscapes that are both challenging and rewarding. “NPC NRG" showcases the band's ability to seamlessly blend disparate sounds into a cohesive whole. Los Coulters have taken a genre that is steeped in tradition and elevated it to daring new heights.  

   Los Coulters have cemented themselves as pioneers and leaders of the experimental cumbia movement with their impressive release history of over 50 original songs.  They have recorded collaborations with artists such as Jose Candelaria, Alea, Young Syrup, Leo Minimum Tek, and Ivan Flores.  Los Coulters have proven that the future of cumbia is in good hands with their fearless approach to genre-bending and experimentation that pushes the boundaries of cumbia while still paying homage to its roots.

   
Music Review written with Ai by Aibioweapon.

Ai Music Review : Making Movies

   Making Movies are a Latin rock band from Kansas City that have been rocking the world with their unique sound and political lyrics. Their album, ameri'kana, is a testament to the band's musical technicality and political vision. The album is a fusion of rock, cumbia, and salsa, with lyrics that touch on issues such as immigration, cultural identity, and social justice. The result is a powerful listening experience that is both uplifting and thought-provoking.

  The album's standout tracks, such as "No Te Calles" and "Delilah," highlight that the band is unafraid to use their music as a platform for social and political activism, and ameri'kana is a commitment to using their art to effect change. The band provides a dynamic and energetic listening experience that is both engaging and inspiring.

  Making Movies is making a significant impact in the American rock scene and beyond. Their alternative sound, powerful lyrics, and dedication to social and political activism have earned them critical acclaim and a fervent following. ameri'kana is for anyone looking for something fresh and inspiring in the world of Latin music. Making Movies is a band that is making a difference, one song at a time.

   
Music Review written with Ai by Aibioweapon.

Ai Music Review : MULA

   MULA is a Dominican Dreambow group that has been making waves in the Latin music scene with their infectious beats and catchy hooks.  Their music is a fusion of traditional Dembow with modern sounds, and a mix of electronic beats and synths.  The group is made up of talented musicians who bring their own unique style and flavor to the music, creating a sound that is both fresh and authentic.


  A stellar track from MULA is, “Diamantés,” a high-energy tune that showcases the group's ability to create a party atmosphere with their music.  The song features a driving beat, catchy hooks, and playful lyrics.  MULA is a band that is worth paying attention to.  By pushing the boundaries of Dembow music, they are paving the way for a new generation of electronic artists.  Don’t miss out on the music this iconic trio has been creating.


  Music Review written with Ai by Aibioweapon.

Ai Music Review : La Mera Candelaria

 
  La Mera Candelaria is a salsa and cumbia group from Los Angeles that is turning heads in the music industry.  Lead by Stephani “La Mera” Candelaria, the group delivers a high-energy and engaging sound.  Their music blends traditional Colombian, Cuban and Mexican rhythms with modern elements, creating a unique and fresh Californian sound that appeals to a wide range of audiences.  The result is both uplifting and thought-provoking.  

  One of the standout tracks from La Mera Candelaria's repertoire is “Preséntame a Tu Hermana.”  The lyrics are playful and catchy, making it easy to sing along to the chorus.  “Florecer” is a great example of how La Mera Candelaria is able to honor traditional roots while also pushing the genre forward with meaningful lyrics on contemporary issues such as gender and race.

  Their fusion of folkloric rhythms with contemporary compositions makes for an exciting experience that will keep you on your feet.  The band's live performances are particularly noteworthy, as they bring an energy and enthusiasm to the stage that is contagious.  Their vibrant and lively performances reveal their dedication and passion for their craft.  Talented conguera Anita Garay provides fierce percussion for this woman fronted group.

  La Mera Candelaria is a band that deserves recognition for their contributions to the music scene in California and beyond.  Their music is a celebration of culture, community, and the power of music to bring people together.  With their infectious energy and undeniable talent, La Mera Candelaria is a band that should be on everyone's radar and is undoubtedly a band to watch for years to come.

   Music Review written with Ai by Aibioweapon.

Ai Music Review : Discos Resaca Collective

 

  Discos Resaca Collective is a California-based cumbia group lead by Ivan Flores and a collective of musicians, including the Bay Area singers Mariposas del Alma.  The collective boasts near infinite creative vision and musical talent.

  Their recent album, La Curandera Cumbiambera, has been turned into a fully animated, 22-minute music video by lead animator John Coulter.  The animation tells the story of a group of animals who must summon a curandera, or healer, who uses their powers to battle an evil invading force.  The video is a vibrant and colorful homage to retro science fiction, anime and Mexican folk art.  The animation is expertly done, adding a layer of visual interest and depth to the already captivating soundtrack.  The album is a celebration of the rich musical heritage of cumbia, while also pushing the boundaries and exploring spacey electronic sounds.

  Discos Resaca Collective are a talented group of musicians who are making a name for themselves in the world of cumbia music.  Under Ivan Flore’s leadership they are sure to go far.  La Curandera Cumbiambera is available free to stream through the Canela.TV app.  Don’t miss out on one of the most unique media experiences of 2023.

  
Music Review written with Ai by Aibioweapon.

CONTROL by Here's To Now (Official Music Video)

New Music Video from Here's To Now

Video by Alejandro Films

BANDCAMP FRIDAY - SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

 

LINK TO SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

Bandcamp Friday Playlist

New music from Shark’s friends from around the world.   

Visit & support the artist’s Bandcamp today!

Flaco el Jandro - Nadie

Los Coulters - Mass Surveillance 

Discos Resaca Collective - La Cumbia Encerrada 

Quiensave - High Class

Spaghetti Cumbia - Spaghetti Ready

La Mera Candelaria - Dame un Beso

Los Cumpleanos - Baila La Cumbia

El Santo Golpe - Porque Será

Descarrilao - La Trampa

Making Movies - Tired of Giving In

Alea - Entre Tanto y Tanto

Chrisol - Corazon

Introverted Funk - New Notion

People’s Champs - No Prisoners (Hostages)

Anbessa Orchestra - Werik’i (Gold)

Mula - Cíborg

Los Coulters - Beach Hunter

Maluca - Nyc Baby

Ms Nina - Location

Zoom Soon Bao - Pleamar

Jose Candelaria - Perdón

Corinne Stevie - Close 2 Me

Karibik Underwater - Meme

Twin Seas - Honey Drip

A.M. Rodriguez - Split/Head

Tiny Escalators - Stories you Know

Thee Commons - Acid Girl 

Hecho en Brooklyn - The Look