Back catalogue: All genres

Review: A new take on a Jonathan Richman classic from 1977 which has lit up clubs for 45-odd years, especially during the punk era. The track's infectious rhythm has inspired various reggae remixes but now it's getting a fresh cumbia twist. Cumbia and reggae share a common groove, making them a perfect match for DJs to mix and this one was recorded in Lima by Pancho Acosta, founder and guitarist of Company Quinto, who transforms the track into an upbeat cumbia gem. The flip side features Acosta's 'Carnaval de Jujuy' blended with Money Chicha's modern take on Peru's fuzzed-out chicha sound.

Review: Jonathan Richman's 'Egyptian Reggae' has been setting discerning dancefloors alight since its release in 1977, during the golden era of punk. Known for its infectious rhythm, the track has seen a few reggae remixes over the years. However, it was time for something freshia playful yet respectful cumbia twist. Both genres share a certain groove, making them a perfect match, and it's easy to imagine DJs weaving these sounds together in their sets. This new take on 'Egyptian Reggae' has been recorded in Lima by Pancho Acosta, the founder and guitarist of Company Quinto, and one of Peru's finest cumbia guitarists. Acosta brings his expert touch to the track, transforming it into an upbeat cumbia gem. On the flip side, we're treated to one of Acosta's own originals, 'Carnaval de Jujuy', recorded by Austin-based future cumbia outfit Money Chicha. The song blends Peru's fuzzed-out early chicha sound with Money Chicha's unique, modern interpretation of the genre, delivering a fresh, captivating cumbia vibe.

Review: Egle Martin's rare Afro-Latin 7" gem, originally released in 1970, has become a highly coveted record among collectors due to its infectious dancefloor energy. Martin, a multifaceted Argentine artistiactress, dancer, and singeriplayed a pivotal role in promoting Afro-Argentine culture and reclaiming Afro roots in Rio de la Plata. By the time of this recording, she had already achieved widespread acclaim, having performed with legends like Dizzy Gillespie and the Berlin Symphony Orchestra and released an album with renowned composer Astor Piazzolla. Her voice, rich in texture and distinctive in tone, captivates as she sings in Spanish, with an effortless freedom and power in her delivery. In 'El Dombe', Martin's tenderness shines through, offering a heartfelt ode to the rhythm and meaning of the dombe dance. 'Dombe Barilo' takes on a more bold and sweeping energy, with its ritualistic and uplifting message. Roberto Montiel's dynamic arrangements blend soul, funk and Latin American rhythms, all deeply rooted in Afro influences.

Review: Vampi Soul's latest release is not a reissue, but rather a brand-new album of Peruvian chicha music - a kind of psychedelic, fuzz-fuelled sound that shares some sonic similarities to Cumbia, but also slightly more salsa-soaked rhythmic shuffle - played, performed and produced by self-styled "future cumbia" combo Money Chicha. It's a fantastic album of tropical psychedelia, with the Austin-based outfit - supplemented by a handful of legendary South American musicians - serving up brand-new compositions that sound like they were recorded in the golden era of chicha decades ago (think Santana style electric guitar solos, infectious Latin percussion, funk bass, flanged rhythm guitars and effervescent vocals). In our collective opinion, Chicha Summit is a genuine must-check release.