Released on September 8, 2023, Aguankó’s Unidad is a rich collection of Latin jazz, infused with Afro-Cuban rhythms and the spirited heart of Detroit’s music scene. Led by the masterful Alberto Nacif, a conguero whose roots stretch from Mexico City to the jazz clubs of Detroit, this album celebrates musical fusion and rhythmic brilliance through eleven original compositions by Nacif and other ensemble members.
The ensemble behind Unidad is a vibrant blend of seasoned musicians, each bringing their own unique flavor to this musical concoction. Leading the pack is Alberto Nacif, a conguero with a rich history in both the traditions of Latin [...]
In the ever-evolving exploration of modern world music, a new ensemble has an exciting and intricate sound that captivates; meet the Austrian ensemble Shake Stew. Their latest offering, Lila, released on October 13, 2023, under the aegis of Traumton Records, is a fine collection of songs and shows their relentless pursuit of musical innovation and excellence.
At the heart of Lila is the ensemble’s core configuration – a unique amalgamation of two drummers, two bass players, and a trio of horns, painting a sonic landscape that is as diverse as it is harmonious. This distinct setup provides a fertile ground for exploration, allowing each track [...]
Ah, the intoxicating aroma of cultural confluence! Picture this: You’re navigating through the labyrinthine streets of a city that’s both old-world romantic and cosmopolitan—a musical cityscape, if you will. Every turn introduces you to a new melody, and each twist reveals a distinct rhythm. Now, imagine all of these sounds converging into a harmonious world music song, alive and pulsating. Welcome to “Encuentro Theme,” the latest gem from Haitian jazz pianist Reginald Policard and Cameroonian [...]
Gonzalo Grau & La Clave Secreta: “De Verdad Verdad” – A True Musical Odyssey
It’s been a quarter of a century since Gonzalo Grau and his ensemble of musical explorers formed La Clave Secreta, and in their latest album, De Verdad Verdad, they’ve truly come into their own, with a program that takes us on a musical journey that plays like a hybrid symphony that brings together a world of sounds, from Cuba to New York, from flamenco to hip-hop. It’s a fearless dive into the heart of what makes music a universal language, all brought into focus by Grau’s [...]
