A few weeks back those flawless global beat curators at Soundway Records announced the 21st October release of their next ‘must have’ artefact ‘Síntesis Moderna: An Alternative Vision Of Argentinian Music 1980-1990‘. Meticulously put together by Argentinian DJ/ producers Ric Piccolo and Ariel Harari, a pair of tireless crate diggers turning the spotlight on their country’s rich pop culture, it’s an expansive and eclectic collection that surges with electro-dance energy. Nineteen essential tracks are on offer, capturing a decade of cultural shift and creative flourish for Argentina as it wriggled free from the grip of dictatorship. So in many ways this swirling surge of disco, funk, post punk, jazz, tango and techno, represents the sound of liberation played out on the dance floor.
You may have caught the first preview for the release, Donald’s synth-pumped, funk-filled ‘A Ver A Ver’, well now comes further evidence of the records relentless brilliance, ‘Como Son Los Retratos’ by Mike Ribas. A pianist and prolific composer in the Argentinian pop arena, Ribas was one of those irrepressible but rarely celebrated music machines with a bulging catalogue of soundtracks, theme tunes, jingles and songs to his name.
With ‘Como Son Los Retratos’ his shift into slinky eighties electro-funk is effortless, all wired guitar lines, loose wristed rhythmic chops, booming bass and lashing snare shots. Mix in some Herbie flavoured moog runs, Cookie Crew chants plus a disco-necessary ‘Aha’ vocal fill and this Ariel Harari edit of the original takes you on an unashamedly upbeat glide.
Signs are the ‘Sintesis Moderna’ compilation won’t be putting a foot wrong….whatever way you take it, this is music to celebrate.
Pre-order your copy of ‘Síntesis Moderna: An Alternative Vision Of Argentinian Music 1980-1990’ from your local record shop or direct from: https://soundwayrecords.bandcamp.com/album/s-ntesis-moderna-an-alternative-vision-of-argentinean-music-1980-1990
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