Traveling: Puerto Rico

In this cold italian winter I can't help to think about the caribbean. I dream of the sun, the smells de las calles, the sounds. So, I dedicate this post to the most caribbean place of "North" America, Puerto Rico. I'm fascinated by this place, where mestizaje is pushed at the limits, not without contrasts and contradictions. And this is well reflected by the music. Listen to that:


Sometimes I think there's more Puerto Rico outside than inside the island. Here there's an extremely good band, based in Washington, where every influence is perfectly melted into the true and original caribbean sounds. Here cumbia, funky and reggaeton go nicely together to reflect the real sound of the new latino generations.


Sometimes I think that hip-hop would somehow be already dead if it wasn't for the latin influence that made it revive and regenerate into something new and powerful. Latin rap and reggaeton, if well done, are irresistible. They make you dance even if you don't want, and they taste like a ron shot: sweet and hot. This album is a very good example of what latin hip hop is capable to do. Try to believe.


Puerto Rico is not just salsa and rap. There's something for every taste. I liked this album because it feels different. Mima is a musician between worlds. She somehow reminds me of the spanish singer "La Bebe", but with that latin sounds that gives her a good push on on the rhythmic side. Nice lyrics and interesting fusion research. Keep en eye on her.


This album is a mix of different elements, all melted in a folkloric athmosphere of latin rhythms, but not totally "classic". I like the lyrics, and the simplicity a little melancholic. The author is a multiinstrumentalist born in Puerto Rico that makes all by his self, and makes it good.