New releases last eight weeks: International

Review: Craft Latino's vinyl reissue of Willie Colon and Hector Lavoe's 1970 album La Gran Fuga is a welcome revival of one of Latin music's most iconic collaborations. Newly remastered and pressed on 180-gram vinyl, this release allows listeners to experience the brilliance of Colon and Lavoe's sixth album in all its glory. With classics like 'Barrunto,' 'Pa' Colombia,' and 'Abuelita,' 'La Gran Fuga' presents the duo's unparalleled creativity and commercial success. Backed by a talented lineup of musicians overseen by Johnny Pacheco, Colon and Lavoe push the boundaries of salsa music, incorporating diverse musical traditions and delivering dance-floor hits alongside emotive ballads. The album's iconic cover art, featuring Colon's "Malo" alter-ego in an FBI wanted poster, adds to its cultural significance. Despite initial controversy, La Gran Fuga became a massive success, earning the duo their second Gold certification and solidifying their place in Latin music history. Retrospectively praised as "essential music" and lauded for its confidence and flexibility, La Gran Fuga remains a shining emblem of the Colon/Lavoe musical aesthetic. As listeners revisit these timeless tracks, they're reminded of the duo's remarkable talent and enduring legacy.

Review: This is the sole recording of a fleeting guitar sextet from Caracas, Venezuela. Led by Moises "Ajoporro" Daubetire, who later founded the renowned Grupo Mango, it marks his debut in the record market. Released amidst the waning boogaloo craze of the late 60s, the LP initially garnered little attention. Yet, it has since become a coveted collector's item. Its simply arranged tracks exude charm, with standout performances like the lively guaracha 'Ahorita No' and the rhythmic guaguanco 'Rico Guaguanco.' Despite its initial obscurity, this record remains a gem, beckoning listeners to explore its musical treasures.

Review: Olindo are thrilled and honored to celebrate one of Venezuela's most significant record labels, and to share a slice of their enduring influence in advancing Venezuelan-made Salsa music, with this fresh new 4xLP compilation in the style. Established in 1948 by Cesar Roldan, Discomoda is one of the nation's earliest record labels, as well as the oldest family operated label in the country. Home to one of the most complete folkloric and popular music catalogues of Venezuela, the label also invested heavily in Afro-Caribbean and tropical rhythms that became popular in the 60s and 70s. Discomoda's efforts saw to the increasing popularity of new local bands, such as Nelson y sus Estrellas, Los Kenya, Principe y su Sexteto and Los Satelites. As a result, this would kick off what could be considered a golden era of Salsa in Venezuela and which lasted until at least the mid-70s.