New Manu Chao – La Radiolina

I first came across Manu Chao a few years ago thanks to still amazing Radio Paradise. The song was “Bongo Bong” and was like nothing I’d ever heard – a mix of latin, world beats, jazz, punk. Well, he’s back with that same hard to define blend with his latest release, La Radiolina (his first stateside release since 2001’s Proxima Estación: Esperanza.

The album is full of energy (many of the 21 songs clock in at under two minutes). They’re mini explosions of world rhythms…bringing together some great sounds: horns, wonderful harmonies, loads of cool percussion, police sirens, flamenco-style guitars. It’s really one of those albums that takes you on a journey. Recommended highly!

Manu Chao – El Hoyo

Buy La Radiolina (Amazon note: the Amazon Mp3 Store looks pretty cool. It’s integrated into all of the CD pages, so you now have a choice of adding the CD to your cart, or buying the DRM-free MP3 album)