Novalima: Peruvian Soul Messengers

Rarely has acoustic and electronic music been partnered as well as by Afro-Peruvian outfit Novalima. Since their 2002 debut, they've brought together an expanding group of soul musicians, and welded the undulating black Peruvian percussion with synth beats that turn up the volume on indigenous party music. Twenty-one players perform on Novalima's new album Karimba, in addition to the group's four core member/programmers. Husky-voiced singer Milagros Guerrero flirts with the visceral backbeat of cajón, donkey bone and gourd, expanded on instinctively danceable tracks with electric guitars and laptops. Rhythms from dub and from Peru's Afro-Latin cousins in Cuba and Colombia complete a 12-track set that shows how technology can keep roots music relevant. Download the free track, "Festejo," which takes its name from the most upbeat Afro-Peruvian style, and join Novalima's celebration of the joy of music. – Judy Cantor-Navas, Google Music

Sorry, but this promotion has expired. Check Magnifier regularly for more free music.