Juno Recommends International: May 2023

Review: Beastie Boy Mike D is back with another volume in this ongoing series on Mr Bongo. This latest one is jam-packed with 10 more sizzling selections many of which he has re-edited and remixed himself just for this boxset. They all come from the golden era of Brazilian music and in a limited edition clamshell box. Every single tune bangs to be honest but the likes of Sebastiao Tapajos Y Pedro Dos Santos's 'Cantico Del Agua' and Erasmo Carlos's 'E Preciso Dar Um Jeito, Meu Amigo' are particular highlights.

Review: Razor N Tape follows up some remixes of Elia y Elizabeth's 'De Pro' with a new two-track 45rpm from the pop duo from Colombia formed of two sisters: Elia and Elisabeth Fleta Malloi. This open opens up with 'Alegria,' a sunny bit of easygoing soul with plenty of orchestral grandeur, big horn energy and the gently lilting vocals of the sisters up top. On the flip is 'Soy Una Nube,' another gorgeous cut this time with more of a 60s folk rock feel thanks to the acoustic guitars and psyched-out percussion. The expressive and often wordless vocals are the centre focus though, and bring real culture to the grooves.