Latin

The Leftouts – “Last One Standing”

Lepork Records is a new net label specializing in South American punk artists. The small offering of online albums is interesting but I was especially drawn to The Leftouts and their free album titled Last One Standing. It is a raucous effort incorporating power pop with punk. I especially like the opening track, “19 Days” and the tense title tune. This album, as well as the albums by other bands on this net label deserve a listen for their inexhaustible energy but also to show how global the punk genre has become.

Bam Bam: Bam Bam

The self-titled 26 minute EP by Bam Bam is a bit of a thrill to listen to. It sounds like they went into the studio with every trick they had and spared nothing. While Brian Wilson need not worry about losing his throne, this collection of power pop ditties turns how to be immensely creative and listenable. The lyrics are in Spanish yet it is not a problem since it is the infectious spirit and likability of this band that carry the session. “Oro Flash” is the highlight of the set with its slightly psychedelic leanings mixed with enthusiastic vocals but I also enjoyed the Animal Collective sounding “Hi-Q” and the lively “Sin Las Patas Traseras”. No, it’s not Pet Sounds (what is?) but it’s Bam Bam and that’s good enough for a party.

Los Sundayers: Eterno domingo

I came across Los Sundayers searching Jamendo for Latin music and I found myself listening to the whole album with great pleasure. One of the albums reviewers, nanito, wrote they've done "a great work indeed blending reggae, dub and ska with elegant cuts and tempo switching, all wrapped around a quite colorful interpretation" and I couldn't agree more.