Tags: Cumbia

Review: The third instalment in the 'Cumbia Sabrosa' series delves into the rich archives of Colombia's Codiscos label, unearthing a selection of tracks that exemplify the vibrant energy of cumbia. Artists such as Los Trotamundos, Aniceto Molina y su Conjunto, and Los Hermanos Martelo contribute to a compilation that seamlessly blends traditional rhythms with the dynamic flair characteristic of the sonidero scene. Each track offers a unique glimpse into the musical landscape of the era, highlighting the enduring appeal of cumbia's infectious beats.

Review: This album transports listeners to 1950s and 60s Colombia, where the tropical sounds of the Caribbean and Pacific coasts dominated the mainland music scene. Edmundo Arias, alongside Lucho Bermudez and Pacho Galan, was one of the pivotal figures of this era, yet his introverted nature kept him out of the spotlight, making his contributions less celebrated than his peers. Born in Tulua in 1925, Arias came from a musical family and mastered several instruments. After his father's death in 1948, he and his brother moved to Medellin, the epicenter of Colombia's music industry. Arias quickly established himself as a talented musician, composer, arranger, and band leader for leading labels like Zeida, Ondina, Silver, and Sonolux. Despite his preference for working behind the scenes, Arias' impact was profound, collaborating with numerous musicians and mentoring young artists. His prolific output included hundreds of compositions and numerous albums. This compilation, Guepa Je!, shows the finest of Arias' work from the 50s and 60s, a period often regarded as the pinnacle of his career. Enjoy the vibrant, joyous sounds of Colombia's tropical music heritage.