Never Too Late: Recent New Albums Round-Up featuring Ana Carla Maza, Rita Donte, Raúl …
In the whirlwind of tending to unruly dandelions, my ever-growing collection of new albums was neglected recently. However, with the trusty companion of my vintage MP3 player, I’m excited to share the latest music releases that have caught my attention.
Ana Carla Maza, a talented Cuban cellist, composer, and vocalist now residing in France, impressed me at the Bleu en Hiver festival in Brive back in January 2024. Her latest album, “Caribe DeLuxe,” is a delightful mix of live and remastered tracks from her previous release “Caribe” along with new compositions. It serves as a bridge to keep her fans satisfied as she embarks on tours and creates fresh material.
Rita Donte, a singer and flamenco dancer hailing from Mexico but born in Cuba, celebrates her Cuban roots with a touch of Mexican influences on her latest album “Ritual.” This retro-sounding album reminiscent of the golden era of Cuban music pays homage to the Buena Vista Social Club, drawing listeners into a soulful experience.
The musical synergy between guitarists Cristiano Nascimento and Wim Welker shines through on “Portraits,” a collection honoring Brazilian choro music. With ten soothing and meditative tracks, this album beautifully merges European classical and traditional Brazilian music, offering a peaceful backdrop for everyday moments.
Rediscovered from the archives, “Edson Machado & Boa Nova” by Far Out Recordings unveils a gem from 1978 that remained hidden for decades. This post-bop jazz amalgamation of Brazilian tunes encapsulates a fusion of soulful melodies and masterful instrumental performances, leaving listeners captivated by its timeless allure.
With the emphasis on percussion, Raúl Monsalve y los Forajidos deliver an explosive album titled “SOL,” delving into Afro-Latin flavors with a modern twist. Influenced by the rich rhythmic patterns of his Venezuelan heritage, Raúl’s musical voyage encapsulates the diverse sounds of the Latin diaspora, resonating with vibrant energy and cultural pride.
Alex Figueira’s album “Colliding Layers” defies categorization, presenting an eclectic mix of synth-heavy compositions that captivate the senses. Featuring intricate time signatures and offbeat percussion, this instrumental journey navigates through avant-garde territories, showcasing Figueira’s multifaceted talents as a drummer, DJ, and producer.
On a psychedelic note, “Dámelo” by Pambelé, a Franco-Colombian septet, weaves traditional Afro-Colombian rhythms with psychedelic echoes from the ’60s. Led by the enchanting vocals of Panamanian singer Yomira John, the band’s debut release marks a promising start, blending cultural influences with contemporary sounds in a mesmerizing tapestry of music.
Going back in time, Coke’s self-titled album from 1972 offers a nostalgic trip into Latin funk territory, reminiscent of early Santana vibes with a hint of British invasion-era influences. Featuring energetic tracks and soulful vocals, this reissue propels listeners into a groovy realm of funky rhythms and captivating melodies.
Lastly, Gary Corben’s latest release “Wah-ee-O” embraces a retro atmosphere tinged with modern sensibilities, paying homage to the artist’s love for classic ’60s and ’70s sounds. From reissuing classics to crafting melodic pop tunes, Corben’s musical prowess shines through on this contemporary yet vintage-inspired album that captures the essence of timeless artistry.