After Cuba and Brazil, it's only right that Colombia should win recognition as one of the great powerhouses of Latin music. Two new compilations showcase the country's wildly varied styles. From the west coast, there's Pacifico Colombiano: Music Adventures in Afro-Colombia, which is more intriguing than the title would suggest. It's an easygoing set that features the African-influenced music of bands such as Grupo Naidy or Grupo Bahia, who have developed slinky, hypnotic styles based around marimbas, percussion and chanting vocals. Then there's Choc Quib Town, who mix folk themes with hip-hop, and Pacho Peña, whose lilting compositions are based around his trumpet work.
The other compilation, Arriba la Cumbia!, is anything but laidback. Cumbia is the insistent, loping style that originated in Cartagena, up on Colombia's Caribbean coast, and is now a global dance craze. This set, compiled by DJ Russ Jones, segues between electronica, including new remixes by the likes of Basement Jaxx, and fine vintage accordion-backed songs from such classic performers as Alberto Pacheco. There are sadly few sleeve notes, but it's a great dance album.
