While we cover some eclectic music on this site, the focus on Latin sounds is rare (save for my most recent post on Los Amigos Invisibles). It’s a shame really because not only is there original Latin-inspired sounds coming from the US as abroad, but there is also traditionally non-Latin music being rejuvenated with a that distinctive flavor. Motown Remixed Volume 2 reinvents classic Motown tracks with contemporary Latin styles from Raggaeton to Latin House. Admittedly, I was worried the moment I put in the CD and hit play. I was afraid that they would take something so recognizable so much a part of American music history and would try to reinvent with Latin beats. Motown does not need to be reinvented but if done right, it can benefit from a stylized interpretation. I am glad to report that much attention was given to preserving the integrity of the classics while being both fun and refreshing. The album brings together Latin superstar producers (SPK, Andres Levin, Cliff Cristofaro, etc) and musicians (Los Amigos Invisibles, Yerba Buena, Funky Junction). For a CD that will definitely turn heads and prompt questions from your friends and co-workers, pick up your copy later this month.

A promising update for those in pursuit of the perfect mix: Amanda Demme, the musical master behind the Garden State, Mean Girls, and Blow soundtracks just released “His and Hers,” an awesome compilation of everything from The Sounds to Luna to Ryan Adams. I have no idea how her and her current musical partner George Augusto manage to make such seamless mixes; it’s so hard to make a CD of different artists sound like they belong together, and exceptionally hard to make that same mix endlessly attractive (I can still listen to the Garden State soundtrack without getting bored, wish I could say that for half of the other CD’s I’ve listened to recently). You can listen to a sampling of each song at the His and Hers webpage and buy the mix on Amazon. I should also mention that this is volume one of who knows how many… maybe number two will be out in time for my roadtrip to Coachella…





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