Felix Contreras

Omar Sosa & Paolo Fresu: Tiny Desk Concert

Felix Contreras — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 21:25:00 +0000

You don't really listen to an Omar Sosa concert so much as experience it. The Cuban-born pianist's overall demeanor exudes a sense of calm and deep reflection, while a spiritual connection to music and his ancestors comes through in his piano playing.

You can hear Sosa draw on more than 100 years of Cuban piano in the recognizable rhythms of his country's music.

Tito Puente: 90 Years Of Getting People To Dance

Felix Contreras — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 16:55:00 +0000

The percussionist and bandleader Tito Puente would have celebrated his 90th birthday this weekend on April 20. And the recently released box set Quatro: The Definitive Collection is a great place to start celebrating the once and forever King of Latin Music. It captures the driving sound of big band mambo and cha-cha-cha that launched people onto dance floors for decades.

When he died in 2000 at age 73, the New York City native had more than 100 recordings to his name.

Bajofondo, Live In Concert: SXSW 2013

Felix Contreras — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 18:04:00 +0000

With eight accomplished musicians from Argentina and Uruguay, and a sound rooted in tango traditions, Bajofondo lays out a visual and aural feast. Led by Oscar and Grammy winner Gustavo Santaolalla, the group mashes up traditional candombe sounds and other forms with electronica to produce a mix that's hypnotic and danceable.

With bandoneon and violin joining keyboards, guitars and drums, Bajofondo crafts deep grooves that feel laid-back on its four albums, yet radiate infectious energy on stage.

Renaud Garcia-Fons: Tiny Desk Concert

Felix Contreras — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 14:38:00 +0000

Double bassist Renaud Garcia-Fons was destined to create music that spans genres and borders: He was born in France to a family with roots in the Catalonia region of Spain, and he's fluent in French, Spanish and English. Classical, jazz and flamenco represent equal parts of his musical DNA, and his technique reflects the delicate arco stylings of concert halls, the deep groove of jazz and the raw vitality of flamenco.

This appearance behind Bob Boilen's desk captures more than just Garcia-Fons' masterful technique.

Guest DJ: Camilo Lara From Mexican Institute Of Sound

Felix Contreras — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 14:53:00 +0000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dAvO3FDzto

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMUspkOFTDI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Qc889jVJ1g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnuC-VpCXuM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXS1bEiX_5Y

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8LyzT7bkc4

The Latin Alternative Music Conference Preview

Felix Contreras — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 18:10:00 +0000

Every July, fans of Latin alternative music gather in New York for the Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) to see and hear their favorite bands and maybe catch a peek at artists who will become big stars.

For the third year, Alt.Latino is packing our bags for a week of panel discussions, musical showcases, and opportunities to meet and greet bands and industry folks.

This week's show features some of the bands we look forward to seeing in New York.

The Truth About Cinco De Mayo

Felix Contreras — Wed, 02 May 2012 18:15:00 +0000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ0bR6SKI2I

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTdoFNomBEk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNjUf6LKe74