When it comes to music from Colombia, many will initially think of Shakira, and secondly perhaps of reggaeton. Traditionally, however, Colombian music has been a mixture of African, Native Indian and Spanish influences. In the 19th century, slavery was abolished and the ethnic groups merged. That mix led to a series of genres such as the bambuco, porro and the cumbia. The Meridian Brothers lovingly
… sing about them on their seventh studio album in Cumbia, Eres La Cumbia ('the cumbia, that's you'). Under the direction of guitarist / composer Eblis Álvarez, this six piece forges the tropical genres with the help of electronics into a complex but rhythmic whole. Lots of songs on Dónde Estás María? sound rather incoherent on the first (and second) audience, but after repeated listening they force them to dance the cumbia. Stiff Leg Warning: The man's typical footwork may have its origins in the attempts of ankle-chain slaves to dance. (RME)more
