Hola mundo

The obligatory “hello world” post

Hispanic Heritage Month starts this week. Not a fan of the term Hispanic but that’s what it is called. Since I’m a music fan, I have put together a short list of some of the best blends of music I can think of off the top of my head.

Orishas - Orishas Llego

A beautiful blend of son Cubano and hip-hop. Oh, and throw in a little French rapping as well.

Los Zafiros - Y Sabes Bien

Continuing with the sounds of Cuba, Los Zafiros were masters at infusing Doo Wop into their Cuban sound. Just amazing.

Ozomatli - Dos Cosas Ciertas

I think Ozomatli exposed a whole generation of Latinx kids to the old sounds of their parents and made it cool (again). And if exposure wasn’t the thing for some of us, I would argue validation or re-discovery.

Los Lobos - Kiko and the Lavender Moon

I loved this song from the very first time I heard it. It has this haunting Tom Waits sound with that cumbia rhythm and that accordion - man, what a sound. Chicano musical genius in three minutes and thirty-three seconds.

Thee Lakesiders - Parachute

Bringing back Chicano soul. The look, the sound, the emotions… just a beautiful throwback from modern day.

Los Plugz - El Clavo y La Cruz

Seminal Latino punk band Los Plugz had a sound all their own at that time. Just listen to the gritos at the start of the song to the Mariachi-style horns to the ¡ajua! thrown in for good measure. Just beautiful.

Los Skarnales - Bomba 48

Houston’s own Los Skarnales blend pachuco culture with ska into a fun-filled lovely time. Apart from doing it right, they put on some great shows.

There's plenty more but I think this is a good list for now. I'll likely post more in the next couple of weeks. Enjoy : ]