Bongo Joe Switzerland Vinilo y CD

Review: The debut album from Amsterdam-based muso Donald 'Donny' Madjid (a member of The Mauskovic Dance Band) came after an unusual break in his often hectic touring cycle, largely thanks to the pandemic. Keeping himself sane with a plethora of vintage synths as well as a 60s era drum-machine, the resulting experiments gave way to 2021's retro-fitted disco meets new wave opus Pure Donzin. Now that tour-life has resumed and his schedule chock-a-block yet again, it's taken three years for another dose of pure Donny with the release of his follow up Zonder Pardon EP. Authentic swathes of machine-percussion, thick synth-lines and Madjid's own disarming croon (sung almost exclusively in his native tongue) channel the sonic iconography of Talking Heads or Roxy Music, yet transported by way of an Italo-Disco rave to the funkiest spots of inner-city Holland.

Review: Meril Wubslin's fourth album, Faire ca, is a daring musical odyssey that ventures into uncharted territories with fearless creativity. Recorded in Kwake Bass' South London studio, this nine-track masterpiece defies genre boundaries, seamlessly blending blues, folk, post-rock, and dub to create a unique sonic landscape. Collaborating with Kwake Bass, known for his groundbreaking work with Sampha and Kae Tempest, Meril Wubslin fearlessly explores unfamiliar soundscapes. From the intimate blues and folk-inspired 'Grands Espaces' to the experimental fusion of 'La Main' and the electro-blues percussion of 'Famille Phare,' each track showcases the band's innovative spirit and exceptional musicianship. With its bold experimentation and captivating melodies, 'Faire ca' promises enduring musical rewards for listeners and solidifies Meril Wubslin's position as pioneers in the realm of avant-garde music. This album is a must-listen for anyone seeking a fresh and exhilarating musical experience.

Review: Bongo Joe ventures into the Caribbean's musical heart here and spotlights the Dominican Republic's rich musical heritage on Merengue Tipico: Nueva Generacion! which uncovers the essence of Dominican merengue, a sound so often overshadowed in musical discourse. Curated by Xavier Daive, aka Funky Bompa, the compilation reveals rare 60s and 70s gems, unveiling a transformative era post-Trujillo. Daive's 20-year immersion in the Dominican Republic yields original 45s, capturing merengue's evolution in a creatively charged period. Influenced by pioneers like "Tatico" Henriquez, tracks like Rafaelito Roman's 'Que Mala Suerte' exude infectious energy, while Aristides Ramirez's 'Los Lanbones' injects some humour. This compilation transcends reissue norms, offering a deep dive into merengue's roots and thereby enriching global music landscapes.