We have created a new section, called Set Latino, In this series, we'll be constantly inviting leading figures in the music scene from our continent to present the 10 songs made on this side of the world that resonate most strongly in their personal soundtracks. Our first guest is the Colombian artist... Alfonso Espriella, who is currently preparing his next album, which will possibly be released in 2016. Meanwhile, he has sent us his list and given a clear explanation of the reason for his selection.
The Latin Set of Alfonso Espriella It is as follows:
Camila Moreno – Your mom killed youI've been a fan of Camila ever since I saw her play in a bar in Chapinero, here in Bogotá. She has so much power, a really interesting voice and stage presence, and I love her songs in general. This is one of her latest releases, and this song moved me deeply from the first time I heard it (and it still does). Musical moments, like the arrival of this chorus, remind me why making music gives me meaning. The rest of the album, Bad mother, It's VERY interesting; I'm slowly but surely digesting it.
Draco Rosa – My friendsFor me, Draco will always be the great master (along with Cerati) of Latin America. I've been thinking about him a lot since his last shows in Bogotá. I admire his versatility and all his facets: the dark ones, the soft ones, the rock ones, the sweet ones, etc. I love this song; sweet and melancholic, with a very Latin American sound. Recently, after a few drinks, I played it for a friend with really punk tastes, who told me he didn't like Draco at all, and the song brought tears to his eyes. He was completely disarmed. (Just a little anecdote.).
Bomba Estéreo – To my loveI like Bomba Estéreo more and more. I started liking them a lot after the album Tropical elegance And this new album, Amanecer, has struck me as tremendous. I find it incredibly skillful how they've blended Colombian culture with a glimpse into the cutting edge of festival music worldwide. I'm choosing this song because I find it beautiful, and because personally, I prefer Bomba Estéreo's more sensitive and introspective side to their party-oriented side (which is also fantastic, obviously).
Kingdom – FugitiveI saw them doing soundcheck at a festival in Guadalajara where I was also playing (a little before them), and I was immediately drawn to their music, but especially to the guy's beautiful, perfectly pitched voice. Then I looked them up and have been listening to them ever since. I think they're a really good new band.
13th Street – Life (Breathe in the moment): Like all Calle 13 productions: tremendous! Understanding rock as a very broad concept, this seems to me to be one of the most interesting rock bands in Latin America right now.
Ely Guerra – Lontano: From his album Invisible Man. I've loved Ely Guerra's work for years. It's visceral, and like Draco, I love how effortlessly she's navigated, in her music, between powerful aggression and absolute sweetness. I also appreciate its depth. Behind her music, you can sense an inner journey, a lot of reflection, and a sensitive soul who lives life intensely. I also appreciate that she's a very authentic woman who doesn't seem to chase commercial formulas for success. From this same album, I also love the song... Hive. One of those choirs that softens everything.
Schutmaat Trio – The other way aroundAs with the previous project, this is another one from a tremendous composer, producer, instrumentalist, and singer. A young band with tremendous potential, offering something authentic and different to our Colombian music scene, and of a very high caliber. I love the sonic exploration of this, their new EP. 4; A very polished sound for songs that are easy to get into and digest. (I also understand that the leader of this band plays and works with one of the sexiest solo artists in the city, whose name escapes me at the moment).
The Ravine– Sleep without fearI could pick any song from any La Barranca album and it would make me happy. A dark and free-spirited band in their approach to music, full of diverse moments and textures, and with a certain Mexican mysticism in their vocals and lyrics.
Fernando Milagros – The nightAlthough I'd known his name for a while, I only recently started listening to his music. His album New sun I really enjoyed it. I like the calm and fluid way she sings. I find a balance I appreciate between being light (but not "light") and still conveying deep emotions.
Silver Revolver – Crows on the ropeI love the music of this band from Bogotá. The compositions are by someone very talented and experienced in the field. I think this is from their first album, and from what I've seen in concert, I think their second album is also going to be amazing. I'm glad that a band with such dense, beautiful, and emotional songs is emerging in an environment where the need to make people dance to create a "party" seems to predominate.
