Alt.Latino

Jorge Drexler returns home

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Jorge Drexler is one of the most decorated singer-songwriters in Latin America. His albums are always high profile events, and his latest record merits the attention. It's called Taracá, and to make it he returned home to his native Uruguay - after living in Spain for 30 years - to explore the roots of an Afro-Uruguayan tradition known as candombe. On this week's episode we chat with Drexler about the motivation for returning to his home country, making music after losing his parents, and how the album's title reflects the sound made by a candombe drum.

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Sonic Bloom: Fresh, funky new tracks from Rio, Granada and more

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Listen to this episode out in the springtime air. It starts with a bucolic jaunt through Brazilian guitarist Fabiano do Nascimento's latest orchestral project, then finds La Plazuela's fresh Spanish funk and Macha's irreverent side project. Other sounds along the way: Caribbean pop from Venezuela, feel-your-feels indie from northern Mexico and an electronic spin on the indigenous Náhuatl language.

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Dominican indie, Peruvian cumbia and experimental Argentine pop

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Two phrases spoken during this week’s episode stand out because they represent how Ana and I approach our searches for new music. The first: “The only limit is the imagination.” In my constant hunt for the sound I have never heard, this thought is my mantra. The new music we’re bringing this week really steps up to that challenge, from young upstarts like Broke Carrey to beloved veterans like Draco Rosa.

The second phrase? “Latin music is a geography, not a genre.” Ana put into words something she and I talk about often, the idea that the term “Latin music” is no longer adequate to reflect that amazingly eclectic forms of musical expression in the Spanish-speaking world. This episode features musicians from Argentina, Peru, the Dominican Republic and elsewhere -- but what they share is a distinct artistic expression that consistently blows our minds.

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Songs she loves: Sofia Rei and the magic of the human voice

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

From the very beginning of Alt.Latino, female vocalists have captivated us the most -- and New York-based Argentine vocalist Sofia Rei has been high on our list of favorites for a while. She uses the human voice like paint on a canvas, layering voices to create choirs that take flight at the mere suggestion of a melody. On her new album Antónima, she not only creates magic with her own voice but also collaborates with some Alt.Latino favorites: Gaby Moreno, Daymé Arocena and Xenia Rubinos, among others. As we revive our Guest DJ series, we asked her to bring on some of the songs she loves, for an insider's perspective of the art behind the human voice.

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A Tejano master gets his flowers. Plus, Yahritza y Su Esencia returns

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

This week's new music pairs well with a glass of wine - or, at least, that's what Ana chose while taping this happy hour edition of Alt.Latino at Felix's dining room table. And the music on tap spans a huge breadth of styles. Yahritza y Su Esencia returns with a powerful sophomore album after a spell out of the limelight. Brazilian legend-in-the-making Lucas Santtana collaborates with his mentor Gilberto Gil. Ana Tijoux revisits her late-'90s hip-hop roots. Plus, Tejano master Ruben Ramos tells his life story through song.

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If the singer falls silent, life falls silent: The female power anthem hall of fame

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

International Women's Day is more than a perfunctory holiday in many parts of Latin America. In Mexico City, for example, more than 120,000 people turned out on Sunday to protest femicide and celebrate the ongoing fight for basic rights for women in the country. In honor of the holiday, this week's episode debuts our female power anthems hall of fame, highlighting women in Latin music whose art challenged the status quo of their time. Plus, some on-the-ground reporting from Anamaria Sayre at the march in Mexico City.

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From church basement to salsa immortality: Remembering Willie Colón

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

On Feb. 21, the musical world lost a legend and pioneer of salsa: Willie Colón.

The trombonist, songwriter, producer and arranger was a key part of the transition of Afro-Caribbean dance music from regional traditions to worldwide popularity. For an insider’s perspective on that history, this week we speak to trombonist and bandleader Angel “Papo” Vázquez, a Philadelphia-born musician who was not only inspired to play the trombone by Willie Colón, but also played on some historic recordings by Colón and other Fania Records notables.

The best music tells great stories, and the same can be said about musicians. Vázquez brings along five tracks by Willie Colón that set him, and the rest of the world, on a path of deep appreciation for Colón’s contributions to salsa.

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed

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Chicano soul, Canary Islands merengue and a percussion supergroup

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

This week on Alt.Latino, it's another new music episode with a global panorama: Canary Islands merengue, Chicano soul, Afro-Brazilian roots and more. Plus, a percussion supergroup that Felix could listen to for hours.

Featured artists and albums:

(00:00) Introduction
(00:55) Quevedo, 'NI BORRACHO'
(05:02) Joey Quiñones, 'In a Soul Situation'
(12:24) Carolina Mama, 'Amina'
(15:31) Elipsis, 'Elipsis'
(19:22) Da Cruz, 'Som Sistema'
(23:46) Sofía Rei, 'Antónima'

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music.

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A Brazilian summer and a lost Mexican masterpiece

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

So, I was away for a bit and the new music just piled up during the holidays, and while we were watching Bad Bunny make headlines at the Grammys and the Super Bowl. Our first new music episode of the new year has quite a variety of styles from lots of different countries. We could say that about just about every new music show we produce. But what are we to do when the amount of creativity that comes our way pretty much overwhelms us? Jump in for a summertime journey through the many sounds of Brazil, a fusion of indigenous and contemporary styles, and a lost relic of Mexican rock from the 1970s.

- Felix

Artists and albums:

(00:00) Introduction
(01:20) Amaro Freitas, Criolo, and Dino D'Santiago, 'CRIOLO, AMARO E DINO'
(09:19) Javier Jara, 'Our Rhythms, Our Voices'
(13:19) Infinito Latente, 'Sem Início Nem Fim'
(19:19) Ernan Roch Con Las Voces Frescas, 'La Onda Pesada'
(24:52) João Menezes & Paulo Novaes, 'Coisa Híbrida'
(30:02) Líber Terán, 'Canciones Del Desierto'

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Puerto Rico takes the field at the Bad Bunny Super Bowl

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show was many things: a time-traveling journey through the history of Puerto Rico, a statement of pan-American unity, and a masterpiece of cultural expression. This week, co-hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre are joined by Isabella Gomez Sarmiento — who brings on-the-ground reporting from San Juan — to unpack the symbolism embedded in Bad Bunny's performance.

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Bad Bunny makes history at the Grammys. Up next, the Super BBowl

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Last Sunday, Bad Bunny's 'DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS' became the first exclusively Spanish language album to win album of the year at the Grammys. This coming Sunday, the Puerto Rican megastar will perform at the Super Bowl halftime show. For this week's episode, Anamaria Sayre and Isabella Gomez Sarmiento chat about what these two moments mean for Bad Bunny, the island of Puerto Rico, and the role of Latin music in America more broadly.

This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music.

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Venezuela speaks: Producer Ella Bric spins songs with a 'teardrop of optimism'

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

This month we’ve been looking at the music of Venezuela from a lot of different angles. For this episode, we’ve invited trumpet player and producer Ella Bric to be our guest DJ. She shared what she thinks are the most socially, culturally and politically impactful pieces of music to come out of Venezuela in the last half century.

Ella Bric grew up in a migrant-rich town in Venezuela called San Antonio de los Altos, surrounded by a culturally-minded, socially conscious community. She’s now based in New York, and in recent years has positioned herself as a prolific producer on the rise in the Latin music space. In 2018, she won a Latin Grammy for Producer of the Year, and she says her art comes from a curiosity about the state of the world and her desire to reflect that.

(00:00) Introduction
(01:46) La Vida Bohème, 'Hornos del Cal'
(06:41) Betsayda Machado & Parranda el Clavo, 'Sentimiento'
(11:35) María Rodríguez, 'Los Dos Titanes'
(15:11) Ali Primera, 'Techos de Cartón'
(19:52) Linda Briceño & Orlando Watson, 'Unfinished Song'
(24:38) Desorden Público, 'Politicos Paraliticos'
(27:36) Bucle Lunar, 'Subió El Maldito Dolar'

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Rawayana on their new album and a changing Venezuela

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Sometimes life imitates art - or at least the two can seem eerily connected. On Jan. 1, the Venezuelan band Rawayana released a new album, '¿Dónde Es El After?,' which began with a lyric that many interpreted as a wish for their country's leadership to be gone. A few days later, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was ousted from power and seized by American forces. For this week's episode, we chat with Fofo Story and Beto Montenegro of Rawayana to hear how the album came together, where its sonic influences lie, and how they're reflecting on the seismic changes underway in their home country.

(00:00) Intro
(01:54) How they decided to open the album
(06:26) On the song 'Qué Rico PR!'
(09:36) Caribbean influences growing up
(13:41) Childhood love for merenhouse
(16:13) Adapting tonada folk music
(21:58) Reflections on Venezuela in this moment

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Our Love Letter to Bob Weir

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Over the weekend, we lost a musician who shaped the lives of countless people: the late, great Bob Weir. He was a founding member of the Grateful Dead who played guitar, wrote and sang in the band for 30 years. After Jerry Garcia died and the Grateful Dead disbanded in 1995, Weir kept the spirit of the music alive for three more decades, creating new Deadheads for generations to come — he brought John Mayer, Billy Strings and even the National Symphony Orchestra into the Grateful Dead universe. The Deadhead slogan proved to be true: Weir everywhere.

At Alt.Latino, we’re big fans of Bob Weir and his immensely cosmic musical legacy. Over the years, we’ve learned that many Latin musicians are also, metaphorically speaking, on the bus. Today on the show, we celebrate Bob Weir’s life by hearing some of his past interviews on NPR, exploring the Grateful Dead’s influence on artists like Devendra Banhart, and of course, revisiting his magnetic Tiny Desk concert from 2019. We’re incredibly grateful that Bobby came down to this world for a little while to tell us his stories – we hope to see him in the next one.

(00:00) Intro
(01:38) Bob Weir's early life and Grateful Dead career
(08:05) Grateful Dead at the National Symphony Orchestra
(14:30) Felix and Isa reflect on 'American Beauty'
(20:35) Grateful Dead's impact on Latin musicians
(26:33) Bob Weir at the Tiny Desk

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Music as protest in Venezuela

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Venezuela has a deep tradition of reflecting political change through music. This week, as the country reels from the seizure of its president by American forces, we explore the recent history of Venezuelan protest music, and from the Nineties right up until the present. First, we share an excerpt of an episode we made at another moment of political turmoil in Venezuela, in the summer of 2024. Then, we'll walk up to the present and see how some musicians across Latin America are responding to this moment. And a big thanks to NPR Music's Isabella Gomez Sarmiento for being our guide.

(00:00) Intro
(02:06) A history of Venezuelan protest music
(13:39) Social and economic changes under Nicolas Maduro
(14:53) Venezuelan protest music in recent years
(22:21) How artists across Latin America are responding

This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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What We Missed In 2025

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The sheer volume and variety of Spanish-language music released every year is breathtaking. Even those of us with our ears to the ground are bound to miss things. So, in this episode we travel back through the year to resurface some of the remarkable albums that somehow didn't make it on the show. Catch Afro-Caribbean jazz, a history-spanning classical strings project, the return of Juana Molina and much, much more.

Artists and albums featured in this episode:

- Alex Cuba, 'Índole'
- Enyel C, 'Nuevo Caribe'
- Berta Rojas, 'La Huella de las Cuerdas'
- Cazzu, 'Latinaje'
- Conrad Herwig, Eddie Palmieri and Luques Curtis, 'Reflections-Facing South'
- Juana Molina, 'DOGA'

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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What Were Felix and Ana's 2025 Favorites?

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

This year was bookended by two major statements in Latin music. In January, Bad Bunny released DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, and followed that up with a 31-show residency in Puerto Rico over the summer. Then, in November, the Spanish vocalist Rosalía released her genre-defying masterpiece LUX, which sent legions of music lovers scrambling to try to grasp the magnitude of an album performed in 13 different languages.

But they were only the tip of the iceberg of yet another year of mind-bending creativity in Spanish language music. This week we look back at some of the other artists and recordings that made 2025 another year of adventurous and rewarding listening. These six artists made only a fraction of music that caught our attention. But we only have so much time on these podcasts! Use this as a starting point to explore the year that was on your own. And check out more of NPR Music's coverage of the best music of 2025 here. Enjoy!

Artists and albums featured in this episode:

- Bad Bunny, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS
- Rosalía, LUX
- Queralt Lahoz, 9:30 PM
- Roxana Amed, Todos los Fuegos
- Arath Herce, Musas en Mi
- Mon Laferte, Femme Fatal
- rusowsky, DAISY
- Lido Pimienta, La Belleza

This episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Zen and the art of new music

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Some folks think by December all the releases for the year are complete. Not quite. This week we feature a new music show with albums that should be considered along with the year’s best.

We've got pop and alternative from Mexico, funk from Colombia, rock and ambient from New York and a Tejano master celebrated by his fellow Texans. Plus, Felix brings the zen.

Artists and songs featured in this episode:

- Diles que no me maten, 'Manos de Piedra - Revisitada'
- Dianna Lopez, 'Sun Frequencies (Renewal)'
- HUMBE, 'fantasmas'
- Rene Lopez, 'Any Chance'
- Duplat, 'Vete del País'
- Ruben Ramos. 'El Año Viejo (ft. Gaby Moreno)'

This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Roots and unity at the Latin Grammys

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The annual Latin Grammy awards are always full of glamour and glitz. But they're also an ideal time to take the pulse of the industry - which is exactly what Anamaria Sayre did this year, perusing the red carpet to talk with the most exciting names in Latin music.

In this episode, Ana brings Felix her report from Las Vegas, where Bad Bunny won Album of the Year, the independent Brazilian music scene made a splash, and the whole industry seemed to be saying: "Show us where you're from."

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Rosalía in her own words

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Spanish vocalist and composer Rosalía has been a major presence in Spanish language music since she released her 2018 album, "El Mal Querer." She started by leaning into her flamenco roots, but since then she has expanded her musical vision to become one of those musicians who defies category.

Her new album "LUX" stretches that descriptor to its limit. Her musical tools this time include the London Symphony Orchestra, singing in 13 languages, guests like Icelandic performer Björk, and her own vocals that hit operatic heights. This week, Ana and Felix dissect the album and play excerpts from Ana's interview with Rosalía. How can you go wrong?

You can read extended highlights of Ana's interview with Rosalía at NPR.org

This episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Portraits of Jazz and Identity in Latin America

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Ever since I heard the Argentine saxophonist Gato Barbieri back in the Seventies, I’ve been fascinated by musicians from South America who found their way to jazz.

Lately there seems to be a strong showing of contemporary musicians from various Latin American countries who not only play jazz but also mix certain Latin American folk traditions into their sound.

So, this week I spoke with six of them: vocalist Claudia Acuña from Chile, Argentine vocalists Sofia Rei and Roxana Amed, Mexican vocalist Magos Herrera, guitarist/vocalist Camila Meza and tenor saxophonist Melissa Aldana.

Each has a story about identity, living the jazz dream and how they came to jazz.

Hopefully you’ll use this roadmap to start your own journey into jazz, if you haven’t already.

- Felix

Music heard in this episode:

Claudia Acuña - “Prelude To A Kiss”
Sofia Rei - “El Gavilán”
Gato Barieri - “To Be Continued”
Roxana Amed - “Corazón delator”
Mangos Herrera - “Luz de Luna”
Camila Meza - “Utopia”
Melissa Aldana - “A Purpose”

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Salsa, bossa nova, and Argentina's next big thing

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Not to sound like a broken record, but I'll say it again: the variety of creative expression in what is inadequately labeled "Latin music" continues to astound me.

From the bossa nova-by-way-of-Guatemala of Fabuloso and Los Skeepers, to the evolving torch singing of the Chilean-via-Mexico vocalist Mon Laferte, to the ‘Western noir’ of California singer Andrés Miguel Cervantes, to Nathy Peluso’s Argentine take on Seventies New York City salsa, to jazz from southern Spain’s Chano Domínguez... how do we even try to keep up with this kind of output?

Someone has to do it, and we’re glad it’s us.

Featured artists and songs:

- Milo J, 'OLIMPO', 'Bajo De La Piel', 'Jangadero'
- Fabuloso & Los Skeepers, 'Si Te Gusta'
- Mon Laferte, 'Las Flores Que Dejaste En La Mesa', '1:30'
- Chano Domínguez & Emaginario, 'March Of The Siguiriyas'
- Nathy Peluso, 'ÁNGEL'
- Andrés Miguel Cervantes, 'Dreams of Jacumba'

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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What's in our mailbag? The beauty of simplicity

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

The past month has been a whirlwind. The El Tiny takeover of the Tiny Desk... interviews with some of the most exciting artists in Latin music... and, of course, puppets! So, for today's episode, we emerge from the craziness and dig into our neglected mailbag, which is brimming with new music. What did we find? Simple beauty. A young songwriter from Veracruz whose spare compositions have wowed his elders. An offbeat producer from Madrid. And, a joyful ode to a city half a millennium old.

Featured artists and songs:

- Arath Herce, "Musas en Mi" and "Quien Pensaría"

- iLe, "Si Te Contara"

- TRISTAN!, "Voyage" and "Ártico"

- Venezonix ft. Pahua, "La Soledad"

- Meme de Real, "Estaba Sentado" and "Embeces"

- Bomba Estereo ft. Carlos Vives, "La Samaria"

This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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A Tiny Desk chat with Silvana Estrada

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

There's no question that Mexican vocalist and composer Silvana Estrada is special to Alt.Latino. Ever since she launched her 2022 album "Marchita" with a series of revelatory singles, she seemingly spoke directly to Alt.Latino co-host Anamaria Sayre.

Since those earliest days, the two have been able to spend quite a bit of time together in interviews and other public gatherings, which only brought them closer on a personal level. Now, as Estrada releases her new album, "Vendrán Suaves Lluvias," and celebrates the publication of her Tiny Desk Concert, it seemed like a good time to sit in on the ever-flowing conversations between the two of them.

The result is a conversation that is probably a lot more personal than you’re used to. And that’s OK. Because Silvana is a performer of complex emotions, and while you can experience those emotions through songs, sometimes you have to hear things for yourself. Enjoy.

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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A conversation with Gloria Estefan

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Gloria Estefan is one of those musicians whose work and mere presence in the record industry deserves without question platitudes like ‘pioneering’ or ‘ground breaking.’ In fact, we have often mentioned her in that light throughout the 15 years of Alt.Latino. So it was a thrill to invite her to chat with us once again, this time immediately after a stunning Tiny Desk performance that will publish Oct. 13. She gives serious Favorite Tiá vibes, and since she and Felix are close in age, it felt like a conversation with a good friend with a fascinating life story - who just happens to have one of the richest song catalogs in Latin music history.

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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The return of El Tiny

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

It's that time of year again: NPR's Tiny Desk becomes El Tiny, featuring concerts from some of the most exciting and legendary Latin artists around. So, this week Felix and Ana run through this year's El Tiny lineup and listen to performances from Fito Paez, Carlos Vives, Chuwi and more. Plus, a conversation about the news that Bad Bunny will perform at next year's Super Bowl LX.

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Latin honky tonk and imaginary collaborations

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

The way new music comes to Alt.Latino World Headquarters says a lot about our slight age difference. I still get CDs in the mail, with an occasional music file sent via email. Ana is constantly playing me audio files she gets vial email or texts from her new music sources, very rarely on CD. So while we were busy putting the finishing touches on our fist annual El Tiny takeover of the Tiny Desk Concert series, our mail piled up. Which means we had lots to choose from for this week's new music episode. There's bound to be something that catches your ear and makes you think: 'How did I live without that in my life?"

Featured artists and songs:

- Making Movies, “La Marea” ft. Mireya Ramos

- Teo Planell, “El Mundo Delante de Ti”, “Como Pensarte Mal”

- Ramona and the Holy Smokes, “Esta Herida”, “I Want You To Be My Man”

- Lorea, “Se me ve la cabeza”, “Mi alma sobre la mesa”

- Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Yainer Horta and Joey Calveiro, “Quizás, Quizás, Quizás”

- Martox, “Enganchao de Ti”

This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Bad Bunny Closes Out His Residency

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 12:22:24 +0000

Bad Bunny's months-long residency in Puerto Rico is coming to an end. The shows brought in hundreds of millions of dollars to the island, and sparked new debates about Puerto Rican identity and politics.

For this week's episode, Ana and Felix traveled to San Juan to take in one of the final performances, and interview both locals and tourists about the musical and cultural impact of the summer of Bad Bunny.

This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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A Tribute to Alt.Latino host Felix Contreras

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

This week's episode is a tribute to host Felix Contreras, who just received the Hispanic Heritage Award for Journalism from the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. Co-host Anamaria Sayre and the Alt.Latino team surprised Felix with guest appearances from Juanes, Daymé Arocena, Chucho Valdés, Dolores Huerta and more.

This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Felix's healing soundtrack and new love songs

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Felix shares the music that's helped him recover from a serious illness. Anamaria shares some new exquisite (and, in one case, slightly toxic) love songs.

Featured artists and songs:

• Blood Orange, "I Can Go" (feat. Mabe Fratti & Mustafa)

• Draco Rosa, "Quiero Vivir"

• Caetano Veloso, "Voce E Linda" (Remixed Original Album)

• Tim Bernardes, "BB (Garupa de Moto Amarela)"

• Tim Bernardes, "Última Vez"

• Santana, "Goodness and Mercy"

• Xavi, "Ojitos de Miel"

• Los Lobos, "Bertha" (Live at the Carefree Theatre, 1992)

This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.

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Ecuadorian-American indie pop, 2010s Tumblr-core and bedroom pop cumbia

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 07:00:57 +0000

This week, NPR Music reporter Isabella Gomez-Sarmiento is back on the mic, bringing host Anamaria Sayre new music in the vein of her 2010s Tumblr era. Think emo bangs, bright blue skinny jeans and a Warped Tour T-shirt. Sonically, this week’s picks run through bedroom pop, sultry balladry and Bronx-Dominican rap over post-punk basslines.
Featured artists and songs:

• Titanic (I. la Católica and Mabe Fratti), “Escarbo dimensiones"

• Mon Laferte, “Esto Es Amor"

• Planta Industrial, “Teteo in The Bronx”

• Santi Muk and Zenon Pereyra, “seu carinho,” “CUÁNTO FALTA PARA CONOCERTE?” and “ANA BAILABA”

• Maria Usbeck, “Mar”

• LATIN MAFIA and Omar Apollo, “Hecho para ti”

This episode was produced by Noah Caldwell and edited by Otis Hart. Suraya Mohamed is the Executive Producer of NPR Music and the madrina of Alt.Latino.

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Flaco Jimenez and Eddie Palmieri: Why Their Music Mattered

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

On Alt.Latino we often discuss the way that traditions are recognized and expanded upon. Usually it’s when we’re talking about new artists.

But this week we are spending time honoring two legends: Tex Mex accordion player Flaco Jimenez and Latin jazz pianist/composer Eddie Palmieri each died within the last few weeks. They were foundational to their respective musical cultures, products of two distinct Latino cultural and musical traditions who also expanded the idea of tradition with their musical visions.

Tune in this week to see how Felix connects the dots between these two seemingly dissimilar icons — and hear some new music that also blends tradition with modernity.

Music heard in this episode:

Orquestra Afro-Brasileira, “Saudação ao Rei Nagô” and “Obaluayê”

Doctor Nativo, “Caminantes” feat. Roco Pachukote

Bikôkô, “The Other” feat. Isaiah Hull and “La Mano” feat Crystal Murray

day2k, “OBSSD” and “más q todoooooo”

Flaco Jimenez, “Lucerito”

Eddie Palmieri, “Una Rosa Española”

Audio and production for this episode was done by Noah Caldwell.

Suraya Mohamed is Executive Producer for NPR Music.

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Latin summer anthems

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Felix Contreras is on vacation, so Anamaria decided to throw her own kind of summer bash in his absence. With NPR Music reporter Isabella Gomez Sarmiento along for the ride, today’s Alt.Latino sails through tropical bangers from Mexico, Brazil, the Dominican Republic and more.

Simon Grossmann, “Copa del Mundo”

A beachy pop-ballad about building a soccer team (as a metaphor for making love), “Copa del Mundo” is the latest single off Grossmann’s upcoming album, Empezar Ganando, out Sept. 21. The Venezuelan-American artist is known for laidback acoustic melodies and sentimental lyrics that transport listeners to romantic sunsets on the coast of Morrocoy (or Puerto Rico, where Grossmann produced the record alongside Fux Beat and Bebo Dumont).

Xavi and Kapo, “Bien Pedos”

A regional Mexican vocalist and Colombian rapper team up for an unexpectedly welcome collab. On “Bien Pedos,” Kapo’s signature afrobeats sound is infused with charcheta horns from Sinaloa, resulting in an infectious pan-Latin pop sound ideal for making moves on a late-night dancefloor. At the center of it all is Xavi, the 21 year old who started covering corridos for his mom and has quickly emerged as one of the most magnetic voices in contemporary musica Mexicana.

Ana Frango Elétrico, “A Sua Diversão”

Traveling down to Rio de Janeiro, the latest single from multi-instrumentalist (and poet) Ana Frango Elétrico mixes elements of jazz, funk and pop for an uncategorizable groove that we wish would never end. A standout voice in the Brazilian new wave (and with a co-sign from bossa legend Marcos Valle), the Latin Grammy winner infuses their nostalgic yet innovative sound with a refreshingly punk attitude.

Letón Pé, “Prendan Un F**** Abanico,” and “Madrugá”

Dominican singer and actress Letón Pé can do it all. An Ibiza-ready club hit that tracks the soaring summer temperature? Check. A sultry, ‘80s retro siren song detailing a late-night fantasy? Check. Whether she’s working with Spanish DJ Piek or Mexico City-based producer Julián Bernal, Letón Pé’s voice draws listeners into a world of Caribbean textures, melodies and dance moves.

Martox, “Si Es Verdad” and Lena Dardelet feat. Martox, “A mi de ti”

Dropping an anchor on the Dominican Republic, we listen to two tracks from underground duo Martox. Their pulled-back approach on electronic and R&B production crafts a subdued merengue vibe on their latest single “Si Es Verdad.” Ana takes the opportunity to resurface their collab with French-Dominican vocalist Lena Dardelet, “A mí de ti,” a dreamy meditation on a missed connection.

stivijoes, “Solo” and “No he nacido rico”

Ana ends the show with a sad-boy mic drop courtesy of Catalan artist stivijoes. “Solo” and “No he nacido rico” use melancholic piano and lush synths to capture the producer and songwriter’s battle with grief, familial pressures and creative ambitions.

The audio for this episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is Executive Producer of NPR Music.

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The decline of corridos tumbados? Plus, more jazz from Felix

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Some might call it whiplash, the way we sometimes zip from one genre of Latin music to another in our New Music shows. But I like to think of it as an expression of the richness and vitality of all music made under what is known as Latin music. This week's selections reinforce the idea that trying to identify this music under one heading is impossible. Let's just call it Good Music. Featured artists and songs: • Harold Lopez-Nussa, “Niña Con Violin" • Sofia Kourtesis, "Canela Pura" and "Ballumbrosio" • Lucrecia Dalt, “caes” and “cosa rara” • goodtoknow (paula prieto, benjamin walker, sir hope), "Mareas," "October" and "I’ll stay" • Gabriel Alegria Afro-Peruvian Sextet, “Panabe” • Natanael Cano, “Presidente” and “El Juez” • Gabito Ballesteros and Carin Leon, “Regalo de Dios” The audio for this episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the Executive Producer of NPR Music and the madrina of Alt.Latino.

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It's a Bad Bunny summer in Puerto Rico: Ana recaps 2 of his Residency shows

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Global superstar Bad Bunny is hosting an unprecedented 30 concert residency in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Fans are calling it a defining cultural moment for the island. Anamaria Sayre attended two recent shows and shared her reflections.

Music featured in this episode:

• Bad Bunny, "Callaita"
• Bad Bunny, "Baile Inolvidable"
• Los Pleneros de la Cresta, "Los de la Isla"
• Gilberto Santa Rosa,"La Agarro Bajando"
• Bad Bunny, "Lo Que Le Paso A Hawaii"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.

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Bad Bunny residency prep, new guitar tracks and Latin genre benders

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Before Ana heads off to see Bad Bunny's unprecedented residency in Puerto Rico, we chat a little about why the celebration is significant to the island and Latin music in general.

We also dig deep into new releases that include four different approaches to the guitar and a musician from Peru who defies genre to create his own musical language.

Music heard in this episode:

• Hermanos Gutiérrez, "Elegantly Wasted (ft. Leon Bridges)"
• Bebo Dumont, "Hoy"
• Eljuri, "Karma"
• Yamil Quiere Ser Artista & Oliver Berg, "Bandido," "Gatito Miau Miau Miau"
• Yasser Tejeda, "Una Cascada de Miel"
• Yerai Cortés, "Sonar por Bulerías,"
• Judeline & Yerai Cortés, "Un puente por la Bahía, la Cruz del Campo"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.

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Congress has voted to eliminate government funding for public media

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 17:19:24 +0000

Act now to ensure public media remains free and accessible to all. Your donation will help this essential American service survive and thrive. Visit donate.npr.org now.

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'Our joy is our resistance.'

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 07:00:59 +0000

This week Ana and I share some of our long time favorites. While Ana leans into music discovery, I tend to bring more of the classics. In fact, I build playlists on a streaming service to mix music much like I did back in the era of the cassette tape. There is wide swath of music presented in the show this week. —Felix Contreras

• Maestro Espada, "La despedida," "Tres gotas de rocío," and Peretas del Tío Vicente"
• Lido Pimienta, "Ahora"
• X Alfonso, Eme Alfonso & Síntesis "Rezo a Changó"
• Simon Diaz, "Tonada De Luna Llena"
• Raúl Rodríguez, Chano Domínguez & Martirio, "En Esta Tarde Gris"
• Rita Payés & Silvia Pérez Cruz, "El Panadero"
• Maria José Llergo, "Aprendiendo a Volar"
• Amaia Miranda, "Canción para Amama"
• Ataquemos, "Vilo"
• incluso si nunca despiertas, "la lluvia no mata las flores"
• Malo, "Suavecito"
• Tommy James & The Shondells, "Crystal Blue Persuasion"
• Hugh Masekela, "Grazing In The Grass"
• War, "All Day Music"
• El Chicano, "Viva Tirado"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.

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Bad Bunny gets political, Brazilian grooves from Brooklyn, Reparto Cubano and more

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Ana and Felix break down Bad Bunny's latest political video. Hear their failed attempt at a blindfold listening game.

Artists and songs featured in this episode:

• Cheo, "Amor A Primera Vista"
• babas tutsipop, "antonio banderas" and "cursi"
• Pedazo De Carne Con Ojo, "Sirens" and "Tiralo"
• Ryuichi Sakamoto "DOLPHINS"
• Frank Zappa "While You Were Art II"
• Pink Pablo, "ALL I DREAM," "OJOS AZUL" and "HORSES IN HEAVEN"
• Wampi, "La Última" ft. Leoni Torres
• Wampi, "La Diferencia" ft. Orlenis 22K, Ernesto Loso
• Silvana Estrada, "Lila Alelí"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.

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Vintage cumbia, Ecuadorian folk, guitar jamming and Mexican rap

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Our selections this week feature a crate diggers' delight from Colombia and the sound of modern rap in Mexico.

Featured artists and songs:

• Óscar Agudelo y El Combo Moderna, "Está Como Mango"

• Isabella Lovestory, "Fresa Metal," "Eurotrash," "Tu Te Vas"

• Grecia Albán, "YO POR TI"

• Vicente García, "Mambo Violento," "El Huracán," "Abusadora"

• BALTHVS, "Flesh and Soul"

• Gera MX, "Ciclo Vital," "1 Millón"

Credits

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.

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Karol G goes Pan-Latin, Argentine rock reimagined, Mexico now and then

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 18:35:03 +0000

Karol G leans into a Pan-Latin approach on her latest album. Jazz vocalist Roxana Amed reimagines classic rock from her native Argentina. And more.

Artists and songs featured in this episode:

• Panteón Rococó, "Parison" (featuring Carín León, Sabino & Remmy Valenzuela)

• Juan Wauters, "Manejando por Pando"

• Roxana Amed, "Dejaste Tu Corazon"

• Fito Páez and Luis Alberto Spinetta, "Dejaste Ver Tu Corazón"

• Karol G, "Tropicoqueta," "No Puedo Vivir Sin Él," and "Ese Hombre Es Malo"

• MiMa and Villano Antillano, "Fuego"

• maye, "Yo Me Consiento" and "Peter Pan"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.

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Best music of the year (so far)

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 16:26:16 +0000

A look at some of the most intriguing music released during the first six months of the year.

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New Tracks: Bruce Springsteen (yes, that Bruce Springsteen), pablopablo and more

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:00:59 +0000

This week Anamaria Sayre continues to scour her part of the internet for great new tracks that will impress Felix Contreras, while he continues to explore Latinos who sing country music.

Featured artists and songs:

• Alleh & Yorghaki, "me late"
• Alleh & Yorghaki, "capaz (merengueton)"
• Louie TheSinger, "Quicker Way To Jesus"
• pablopablo, "Dónde Estás!"
• Bruce Springsteen, "Adelita"
• Bruce Springsteen, "Sinaloa Cowboys"
• Belafonte Sensacional, "Llamas Rexio"
• Belafonte Sensacional, "Todavía DF"
• David Byrne and Brian Eno, "Mea Culpa"
• Juana (feat. ELENI), "La Paloma"

Credits

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Accordions: From Eastern Europe to Latin America, with love!

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 07:00:59 +0000

The influence of Eastern Europe immigration in Latin America can be heard in the way the accordion was adapted and adopted in countries like Mexico, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Brazil and beyond.

This week we take a deep dive into those traditions with our guide, Eduardo Díaz, former director of Latino cultural information for the Smithsonian Institution.

Featured artists and songs:

• Narciso Martínez, "Nix"

• Carlos Vives, "Hijo de Vallenato"

• Los Corraleros de Majagual, "La Pollera Colorada"

• Luis Gonzaga, "Asa Branca"

• Grupo Alma Serrana, "Puerto Tirol"

• Francisco Ulloa, "El Farolito"

• Tatico Henriquez, "La Invasión de Deiziseis"

Credits
Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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The Latin bands of the Tiny Desk Contest

Thu, 29 May 2025 17:18:05 +0000

Alt.Latino host Felix Contreras was a Tiny Desk Contest judge this year, and on this episode, he brings six of his favorite entries to the show.

Artists and songs featured:

• Esotérica Tropica, "Despierta"

• Mario Diaz, Bachi and Los Salvajes, "Ropa de Colores"

• alegrías, "Daygo"

• Charly Siaba, "Lejos de Aquí"

• Los Pleneros de la Cresta, "Rayo del Sol"

• Taisha Estrada, "El Abstracto"

Credits

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Musical lessons for living in the moment and meat-inspired band names

Wed, 21 May 2025 07:00:59 +0000

This week's mixture of jazz, trance-inducing beats, Mexican folk and gorgeous indie pop has something for everyone.

Featured artists and songs:

Paloma Morphy, "1 tipo nuevo"

Camila Meza, "Persistir"

Rusowsky, "Malibu"

Ines Velasco, "Todo Es Para Decir"

Pachyman, "Hard to Part"

Las Chorizeras, "Blue Eyed Man"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Guitarricadelafuente and Lido Pimienta return with stunning albums

Wed, 14 May 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Co-host Anamaria Sayre finally gets to share the new Guitarricadelafuente album with the world, and catch the NPR audience on the viral sensation Macario Martínez. Felix Contreras spotlights Lido Pimienta's symphonic pivot.

Featured artists and songs:

• Guitarricadelafuente, "BABIECA!"

• Haydée Milanés, "Un amor que se demora"

• Macario Martínez, "Sueña Lindo, Corazón"

• Macario Martínez, "Otra Vez"

• Macario Martínez, "¿qué somos hoy?"

• Macario Martínez, "Hey destino"

• Lido Pimienta, "Quiero Que Me Beses"

• Marco Mares & Sabino, "digo que no, pero si"

• Adri Paíz, "Quererte o No"

Credits

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Music from South America, Spain and ... Mars?

Wed, 07 May 2025 18:35:21 +0000

The music this week comes from a variety of countries and genres, some of it sounds like music you've heard ... while others sound like nothing you've heard before.

Featured artists and songs:

• Natalia Bernal, "Más Allá"

• Jaze, "mil procedimientos"

• Jaze & Susana Baca, "jomalón"

• Jaze, "boomeran'"

• The Mars Volta, "Fin"

• The Mars Volta, "Enlazan las tinieblas"

• The Mars Volta, "Alba del orate"

• The Mars Volta, "Lucro sucio"

• Diego Mema, "la forma de quererte"

• Diego Mema, "till there was you" (Beatles cover)

• The Rumba Madre, "Abuela"

• Junior Zamora, "Salsa y Clase"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Rapper PJ Sin Suela on Puerto Rican hip-hop and more

Thu, 01 May 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Anamaria Sayre talks about the history of Puerto Rican hip-hop with rapper PJ Sin Suela.

Featured artists and songs:

• PJ Sin Suela & Chuwi, "Escúchame "

• PJ Sin Suela, "Es La Hora"

• Nuff Ced & Tek 1, "Metrópolis"

• PJ Sin Suela, Siete Nueve & Messy Deprat , "Illegal 2.0"

• E.A. Flow, "D'Aqui"

• Intifada, Luis Diaz & Yallzee "Albizu"

• Los Pleneros de La Cresta, "Los de la Isla"

• Bad Bunny & Los Pleneros de La Cresta, "CAFé CON RON"

• Tego Calderón, "Gracias"

• Ñejo Y Dálmata, "Asi Es la Vida"

• PJ Sin Suela, "San Dunga"

• PJ Sin Suela, "Mambrú"

• PJ Sin Suela, "Vivo"

• PJ Sin Suela & Jorge Drexler, "Todo Se Complica"

Credits

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Lauren Migaki. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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These Alt.Latino faves just keep getting better and better

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Alt.Latino hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre talk artistic growth and precocious talent.

Featured artists and songs:

• Natalia Lafourcade, "Cancionera"

• Natalia Lafourcade & El David Aguilar, "Como Quisiera Quererte"

• Natalia Lafourcade & Hermanos Gutierrez, "Luna Creciente"

• Irene Diaz, "Anything For You"

• Eladio Carrión & Myke Towers, "Vetements"

• Eladio Carrión & Lia Kali, "Me Muero"

• Kayatibu, LUIZGA & Yaka Huni Kuin, "Nai Basa Masheri"

• Santi Sc, "Cuando Nos Besamos" (feat. Dirk)

• Santi Sc, "Home Run"

• Maria Marquez, "La Lagrima"

Credits

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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A Banjo, Bomba, Bardo y Más

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Anamaria continues to impress Felix with new female voices, while he shares more jazz and Puerto Rican bomba fusion.

Featured artists and songs:

• Queralt Lahoz, "LA FE"

• Bardo, "Renacer" (feat. Combo Chimbita)

• Vanessa Zamora, "GRAVEDAD" (feat. Çantamarta)

• BEATrio, "Archipelago"

• Mon Laferte, "Otra Noche de Llorar"

• El Laberinto del Coco, "Todo Se Nubla"

Credits

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Behind the scenes of Bad Bunny's Tiny Desk

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Bad Bunny's Tiny Desk concert was the most watched premiere in the series' history. In this episode, Alt.Latino's Anamaria Sayre speaks with the superstar at the Desk and takes you behind the scenes of the performance. NPR reporter Isabella Gomez Sarmiento, who also was in the audience, sits in for Felix Contreras this week.

Featured artists and songs:

• Bad Bunny, "PIToRRO DE COCO" (Tiny Desk Version)

• Bad Bunny, "VOY A LLeVARTE PA PR" (Tiny Desk Version)

• Bad Bunny, "KLOuFRENS" (Tiny Desk Version)

• Bad Bunny, "LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii" (Tiny Desk Version)

• Bad Bunny, "LA MuDANZA" (Tiny Desk Version)

Credits:

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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A psicodélico deep dive, plus new music from Spain and Colombia

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Alt.Latino hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre play the new music that caught their ears this week, plus Felix delivers a deep dive into the roots of psicodélico.

Featured artists and songs:

• Eslabón Armado, "Esa noche"

• Adrian Quesada, "Ojos Secos" (feat. Cuco)

• Jessie Reyez, "**I NEVER SAID I WAS SANE**"

• BALTHVS, "Year of the Snake"

• Grateful Dead, "Dark Star"

• Os Mutantes, "A minha menina"

• Duane Eddy, "Rebel Rouser"

• Valeria Castro, "debe ser"

• Valeria Castro "sentimentalmente"

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Music To Move By (It's Not What You Think)

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 07:00:59 +0000

Alt.Latino's Felix Contreras moved out of his long-time apartment, and in the process, he unearthed some amazing music. Co-host Anamaria Sayre shares the new songs currently moving her.

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Jazz from Latin America, plus a track we can't name from Ca7riel & Paco

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 10:48:27 +0000

Alt.Latino host Felix Contreras gives his co-host Anamaria Sayre a primer on Latin Jazz. She returns the favor with a new track from Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso (of Tiny Desk fame) and a Mexican ranchera that sounds older than it is.

Featured artists and songs:

• Edison Machado & Boa Nova, "Naquela Base"

• Michi, "Memmy (Recuerdo)" (feat. Gabriel da Rosa)

• Adam O'Farrill, "Nocturno, 1932"

• Vivir Quintana, "Más Libre Que En Casa"

• Lucia Sarmiento, "Look Up"

• Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso, "#T****"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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New Music: Something Old, Something New, Something Found... and Jazz

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 18:37:18 +0000

This week we balance our passion for new discoveries with reissued music from an iconic Latin American songwriter.

Featured artists and songs:

• Ezra Collective, "Body Language" (feat. Sasha Keable)

• Patti LaBelle, "Teach me Tonight (Me Gusta Tu Baile)"

• Teri Gender Bender, "SANAR"

• Kevin Kaarl, "recuérdame x siempre"

• Violeta Parra, "Cantores Que Reflexionan"

• Ben Aler, "Honest"

• Jose Luiz Martins, "Cravo e Canela"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Afro.Latino: From Venezuela to Puerto Rico and beyond

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 08:00:59 +0000

Alt.Latino host Felix Contreras takes us on a tour of African influences throughout Latinidad, with a little help from Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Miguel Zenón.

Featured artists and songs:

• Betsayda Machado & Parranda el Clavo, "Oh, Santa Rosa"

• Bia Ferreira, "Quando Você Me Olha"

• Cheo Feliciano, "Anacaona"

• Ismael Rivera, "Las Caras Lindas"

• Ruben Blades & Willie Colón, "Plantación Adentro"

• Roberto Roena y Su Apollo Sound, "Lamento De Concepcion"

• ÌFÉ, "Higher Love"

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Christian Nodal stays messy, pablopablo recruits Carín León, and new Flaco Jimenez

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:00:59 +0000

'Alt.Latino' hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre are back with six new songs that span the spectrum of Latinidad.

Featured artists and songs:

• Christian Nodal, "A Solas con la Botella"

• Las Trompas de Falopium, "JARRE"

• pablopablo, Carín León & Ralphie Choo, "Eso Que Tú Llamas Amor"

• The Mexican Standoff & Flaco Jimenez, "Tu Dirás" (feat. Los Texmaniacs)

• Amaia, "C'est La Vie"

• Angie K, "Red Dirt on Mars"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Selena Gomez's tears, Jessie Reyez's gratitude and what it means to be 'xolo'

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 08:00:59 +0000

Our digital mailboxes continue to overflow with new music. This week, we hear from a Colombian-Venezuelan super group, a new Afro-Brazilian band, and Ana gets another jazz lesson from a Latin jazz orchestra.

Songs featured in this episode:

• XIXA, "Xolo de Galáxia"

• Meme del Real, "Princesa"

• Jessie Reyes, "GOLIATH"

• Arturo O'Farrill & the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra, "Dia de los Muertos III Mambo Cadaverous"

• Trinka, "Grego"

• Astropical, "Me Pasa (Piscis)"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins. Special gracias to Hazel Cills: Thanks for everything!!

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Why we love Joaquina. Plus, Felix is chismeless

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:00:59 +0000

Do not come on Alt.Latino if you don't have good chisme! Ana and Felix talk about their favorite songs of the week, including some psychedelic cumbia, Cuban folk music and more.

Songs featured on the episode:

•Combo Chimbita, "Dímelo"
•Cortadito, "Yemaya"
•Joaquina, "desahogo"
•Joaquina, "aeropuerto"
•The Altons, "Waiting"
•Thee Midniters, "It'll Never Be Over For Me"
•Majo Aguilar, "el beso"
•Carrie Rodriguez, "Miles Away"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Felix and Ana try out New Year's Resolutions

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 18:07:21 +0000

Will Ana and Felix ever figure out their New Years Resolution for 2025? The clock is ticking. They contemplate that and share their favorite recent new music.

Songs featured in this episode:

Marina Albero, "First Step of the journey"
Beelé, Ovy On the Drums, "Mi Refe"
Fela Kuti, "Shakara"
The Bongo Hop, "La Pata Coja feat. Nidia Gongora"
nsqk, Easykid, "BOBOMENSOTONTO"
Federico Aubele, "Te Quiero a Ti"
Juana Aguirre, "lo_divino"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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A moment for Los Angeles

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 08:00:59 +0000

Los Angeles is home for me and always in my heart. Watching the fires from afar in my current city, New York, has me thinking a lot about what makes my hometown great: breathtaking mountains, stunning beaches and above all a hodgepodge, tapestry community that comes together in powerful ways during a painful moment.

The good and bad of LA's history — redlining and rebuilding, previous fires and displacement, immigration and annexation — have all been building blocks for an exchange of culture that shows up in layers in its music and art. This week on Alt.Latino, we've decided to shine a light on some of the sounds that feel most quintessentially LA, while also specifically honoring the creativity that has come from communities most affected by the fires.

We're thinking of family and friends, and the beating heart of the city as a whole. There's nothing quite like LA and we hope this episode is an intro to some and an invitation for others to celebrate what makes it so special. —Anamaria Sayre

Songs featured on this episode:

•José Feliciano, "California Dreamin"
•Ry Cooder feat. Lalo Guerrero, "Barrio Viejo"
•Banda MS feat. Becky G and Snoop Dogg, "Que Maldicion"
•Jasper Bones, "Amor de mis sueños"
•Gerardo Ortiz, "Dámaso"
•Empress Of, "For Your Consideration"

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Why Bad Bunny's 'DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS' is an act of political resistance

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 20:45:56 +0000

On Sunday, Bad Bunny released his sixth studio album, Debí Tirar Más Fotos, and people are saying it's his most "Puerto Rican" record yet. The global pop star has clearly come home to his roots in a meaningful way and given the political situation on the island, releasing an album so proudly Puerto Rican is a major act of resistance. Anamaria Sayre, Felix Contreras and Isabella Gomez Sarmiento break down what exactly makes the record so Puerto Rican and why its Bad Bunny's most reflective, ambitious and ingenious era yet.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Bad Bunny, "EL CLúB"
•Bad Bunny, "NUEVAYoL"
•Bad Bunny, "BAILE INoLVIDABLE"
•Bad Bunny, "LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii"
•Bad Bunny, "TURiSTA"
•Bad Bunny, "CAFé CON RON"
•Los Pleneros de la Cresta, "Resistencia"
•Bad Bunny, "PIToRRO DE COCO"
•Ecos de Borinquen, "El Alma de Puerto Rico (The Soul of Puerto Rico)"
•Bad Bunny, "WELTiTA"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills and Jacob Ganz. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Music We Missed in 2024

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 08:00:59 +0000

'Alt.Latino' hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre do their best to keep up with new releases, but sometimes great music evades their radar. On this episode, the duo highlight some of the best songs they never got a chance to share during the year.

Music We Missed in 2024

• Sanje, "Buen Fantasma" (from 'De Repente Otra Vez')

• David Lindes, "Te Vengo A Perdonar" (from 'Peace With A Lion')

• Yung Dupe X Kimmø X PUGSPUGSPUGS, "Nube Negra" (from 'Políticamente Correcto')

• Benjamin Walker, "Libre" (from 'LIBRE')

• Lhasa de Sela et Yves Desrosiers, "El Cosechero" (from 'First Recordings')

• Dom La Nena, "Pierre et les fleurs" (from 'LA VIE DE MA MÈRE')

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Alt.Latino's favorite songs of 2024

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 08:00:59 +0000

Felix Contreras, Anamaria Sayre and Isabella Gomez Sarmiento run through their favorites in a crowded year for excellent songs, from innovative Spanish hip-hop to distinctive jazz.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Çantamarta, "MOTORIZADO"
•Mala Rodriguez, "Casi Nada"
•Zaccai Curtis, "Maple Leaf Rag"
•Ca7riel y Paco Amoroso, "DUMBAI"
•Melissa Aldana, "A Purpose"
•Residente, "313"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's favorite albums of 2024

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:00:59 +0000

It's that time of the year — figuring out the best Latin music of 2024. And every year, it gets harder and harder (seriously, it's difficult!) for Ana and Felix to narrow down their extensive lists. Joined by NPR culture reporter Isabella Gomez Sarmiento, the three round up the best albums of this year.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Angélica Garcia, "El Que" from Gemelo
•Hinds, "Coffee" from Viva Hinds
•Spanish Harlem Orchestra, "Lluego El Caballero (feat. Gilberto Santa Ross)" from Swing Forever
•Latin Mafia, "tengo mucho ruido." from TODOS LOS DÍAS TODO EL DÍA
•RaiNao, "readysita" from CAPICÚ
•Orquesta Akokán, "Caracoles" from Caracoles

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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As the Latin Grammys turns 25, how much has Latin music changed? (Part 2)

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 08:00:59 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre continue their discussion on the 25th anniversary of the Latin Grammys and the industry's changes, featuring insight from Nathy Peluso, Rauw Alejandro and more.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Fuerza Regida, "TQM"
•Fuerza Regida, "Que onda"
•Fuerza Regida "HARLEY QUINN"
•Latin Mafia, "y como te digo que"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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As the Latin Grammys turns 25, how much has Latin music changed? (Part 1)

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 08:00:59 +0000

The Latin Grammys recently marked its 25th anniversary. Alt.Latino's Anamaria Sayre was in Miami to talk to some of Latin music's most influential artists to understand some of the trends that are shaping Latin music today, shared over two episodes.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Juanes, "Fíjate Bien"
•Juanes, "Vida Cotidiana"
•Álvaro Díaz, "Quien Te Quiere"
•Fuerza Regida, Grupo Frontera "Bebé Dame"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's new music round-up: Damaris Bojor, Becky G and Chicocurlyhead

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:00:59 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre may be traveling in Spain, but that doesn't mean they don't stop finding exciting new music to share. On this episode, they bring "folk pirano" from Damaris Bojor, laidback bedroom pop from Chicocurlyhead, the latest from Becky G and more.

Songs featured in this episode:

•El León Pardo, "La Perica"
•Laura Itandehui, "La Distancia"
•Haydée Milanés, "Requiem Para Un Amor"
•Chicocurlyhead, "WASTED WEEKEND"
•Damaris Bojor, "No es normal"
•Becky G, "OJALÁ"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Our Spain Soundtrack: Judeline, Lia Kali and more

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 08:00:59 +0000

Alt.Latino hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre are in Spain this week for a music conference, so they soaked up the local sounds.

Featured Songs:
- Mayte Martín, "El Breve Espacio Que No Está"
- Rels B and Lia Kali, "La Vida Sin Ti"
- Judeline, "INRI"
- Buika, "La Niña De Fuego"

Listen to the playlist at https://npr.org/altlatino.

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Alt.Latino's new music round-up: Elsa y Elmar, Alih Jey and Little Jesus

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 07:00:59 +0000

Anamaria Sayre brings some exciting new sounds coming out Mexico City (while recording from Mexico City) including sweet new music from Colombian artist Elsa Y Elmar, while Felix Contreras shares new jazz-classical out of Barcelona and more.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Elsa y Elmar, "Palacio"
•Alih Jey, "Luz de Gas"
•Little Jesus, "Tierra Llamando A Sant"
•Lucia Fumero, "Folklore II"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Celebrating the legacy of Celia Cruz

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 07:00:59 +0000

To celebrate the release of a new book from NPR Music, How Women Made Music, as well as the 50th anniversary this year of the album Celia & Johnny, Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre walk through their favorite songs by the legendary Celia Cruz, alongside the artist's niece Linda Pritchett.

Songs featured in this episode:

• Celia Cruz, "Bemba Colorá"
• Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, "Yiri Yiri Bon"
• Celia Cruz, "La Negra Tiene Tumbao"
• Celia Cruz, "Quimbara"
• Celia Cruz, "Cuando Salí de Cuba"
• Celia Cruz, "La vida es un carnaval"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's best new music round-up: Rosalía, Twanguero and Wyatt Flores

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 07:00:59 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre play a few of their favorite new tracks, some from Alt.Latino standbys and some exciting new discoveries, too. Also, we hear from an Alt.Latino listener about a Dominican song that moves her.

Songs featured in this episode:

• Twanguero, "Rumba #2"
• Twanguero, "La Leyenda de Cañaveral"
• Rosalía, "Omega (feat. Ralphie Choo)"
• Wyatt Flores, "Oh Susannah"
• pablopablo, Helado Negro, "Lejos De Más"
• Troker, "El Novio (Versión Mariachi)"
• Los Sufridos, Bad Gyal, "Duro de Verdad pt. 2"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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The songs we can't stop playing on repeat

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:00:59 +0000

Alt.Latino is usually all about sharing new music across Latin America, but what about the older cuts Ana and Felix are obsessed with?

On this episode, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras share the music they've been playing on repeat, from beloved classics by greats like Ella Fitzgerald to surprising new discoveries out of Mexico like Paloma Morphy.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Paloma Morphy, "me faltas tú"
•George Shearing Quintet, "Juana Palangana"
•Carin León and Bolela, "Aviso importante"
•Chick Corea Trio, "Spain"
•Alex Ferreira, "Un Cariñito"
•Alex Ferreira, "Un Cariñito (Versión Acústica)"
•Ella Fitzgerald, "Angel Eyes"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Taylor Haney. Editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino talks all the surprise nominations for the 2024 Latin Grammys

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 07:00:59 +0000

Wait a minute — does Alt.Latino actually agree with a lot of the Latin Recording Academy's nominations this year?

Felix Contreras, Anamaria Sayre and reporter Isabella Gomez Sarmiento run through as many of the whopping 58 categories as they can in this episode dissecting the nominations for the upcoming ceremony.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Grupo Frontera, "CANSADO DE SUFRIR"
•Grupo Frontera and Yahritza y Su Esencia, "LAS FLORES"
•Grupo Frontera and Christian Nodal, "Ya Pedo Quién Sabe"
•Dayme Arocena, "A fuego lento"
•Hamilton de Holanda, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, "Saudade, Saudade"
•Kali Uchis and Karol G, "Labios Mordidos"
•Karol G, "MI EX TENÍA RAZÓN"
•Latin Mafia, "Julieta"
•Kevin Aguilar, "Bonita"
•Nicolle Horbath, "Carmen"
•Nicole Horts, "Bitch3"
•Ana Frango Elétrico, "Dela"
•Angélica Olivo, Juan Pablo Contreras, and Orquesta Latino Mexicana, "La Minerva - III. Himno a la Mujer"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Suraya Mohamed. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's best new music round-up: Manu Chao, Linda Diaz and Solo Fernández

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 07:00:59 +0000

This week on Alt.Latino, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras talk about an exciting new album from Manu Chao on the way — his first in 17 years — and their favorite recent songs from artists like the Dominican indie rock band Solo Fernández, ethereal pop from Tiny Desk Contest Winner Linda Diaz and more.

Ana and Felix are starting something new this week. Felix always says it, but it's not a Mexican party until someone cries. So every episode starting today, they'll talk to a listener about a song that moves them to tears.
And they want to know, what song moves you to tears? Email alt.latino@npr.org for a chance to be featured on the show.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Janeiro feat. André Viamonte, "LEGO"
•Manu Chao, "São Paulo Motoboy"
•Solo Fernández, "TELESCOPIO"
•Solo Fernández, "BROOKLYN"
•Solo Fernández, "TÚ NUNCA DEJARÁS DE SER POESÍA"
•Linda Diaz feat. Solomon Fox, "Watching Ourselves Die"
•Julieta Rada, "Baile del Candombe"
•Amaia Miranda, "Mientras vivas brilla"
•Nick Drake, "Pink Moon"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Suraya Mohamed. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's 'El Tiny' takeover is back — and this year it's all about love

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

'El Tiny' season at the Tiny Desk launches next week and this year it's all about love — familial and romantic, with drama fit for a telenovela. Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras preview this year's line-up, sharing a sneak peek at what 2024's 'El Tiny' has to offer.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Juanes, "Mala Gente"
•Juanes, "A Dios Le Pido"
•Ivan Cornejo, "Ya Te Perdí"
•Okan, "Okantomi"
•Eladio Carrión, "Mama's Boy"
•Daniel, Me Estás Matando, "Lo Hice, Te Dejé"
•Danny Ocean, "Me Rehúso"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Taylor Haney, with editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's best new music round-up: La Doña, Sinego and Spanish Harlem Orchestra

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras play some of their favorite new songs from the last few months, featuring globe-spanning electronica from Colombian producer Sinego, border-crossing new music from La Doña, nuanced salsa from Spanish Harlem Orchestra and more.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Adrian Quesada, "Dos Manos"
•Nancy Sanchez, "You Are"
•Sinego, "Quema"
•Sinego, Pahua, "Sol"
•Spanish Harlem Orchestra, "Llegó El Caballero (feat. Gilberto Santa Rosa)"
•La Doña, "Corrales"
•La Doña, "Corrido Para Palestina"
•Andres Levin (feat. Pedrito Martinez, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Yissy García & Yerba Buena), "Manteca 2.0 (An homage to Chano Pozo, Dizzy Gillespie & Cayo Hueso)"
•Dizzy Gillespie, Chano Pozo and Gil Fuller, "Manteca"
•Nico Sorin, Proyecto Gomez Casa, Lucy Patané, "Karma Dron"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Taylor Haney, with editorial support from Hazel Cills and Otis Hart. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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The sound of Venezuelan protest music over the last 30 years

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Over the past month thousands of Venezuelans have taken to the streets to protest the disputed election of president Nicolás Maduro, while Venezuelan artists like Danny Ocean use music to reflect on this political moment. But Ocean's work is just one data point in a long history of music from Venezuela that embodies the political opinions and emotions of those within the country and the diaspora.

On this week's episode, Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre are joined by producer Isabella Gomez Sarmiento to walk through crucial moments in Venezuela's political history over the last 30 years, and the music that soundtracked it.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Yordano, "Por estas calles"
•Carlos Baute, "Yo me quedo en Venezuela"
•Canserbero, "Es Épico"
•Danny Ocean, "Me Rehúso"
•Apache, "Rompiendo el Hielo"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Taylor Haney, with editorial support from Hazel Cills, Zach Thompson, Tony Cavin and Didi Schanche. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's best new music round-up: Danny Ocean, Girl Ultra and Superfónicos

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre run through their favorite new music, including new work from Venezuelan artist Danny Ocean in the midst of the country's political crisis, Girl Ultra leaning into her techno side, funky, electro-cumbia from Superfónicos and more.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Superfónicos, "Renaceré"
•Girl Ultra, "lalala"
•Fuerza Regida, "TUQLO"
•Danny Ocean, "por la pequeña Venecia"
•Lisa Morales, "Hermanitas in the Rain"
•Jazz Orishas, "Deniye"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Taylor Haney, with editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's guide to Chicano soul

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The genre commonly referred to as "Chicano soul" has that "you know it if you hear it" kind of sound.

It's a bicultural interpretation of late 1950s and early '60s African American R&B ballads by Mexican American youth, influenced by the operatic style of Mexican rancheras. Broken hearts, unrequited love and loving the wrong person are often the main themes.

Real talk: it's the smooth, bilingual vocals of Malo's 1972 hit "Suavecito" expressing the thrill of a new love that is still heard at lowrider car shows or the pleas of "You're Still A Young Man' by Tower of Power, to name a few examples.

This week Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre unpack the genre and how the tradition is being reborn by a crew of young artists making it sparkle anew.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Malo, "Suavecito"
•Joe Bataan, "I Wish You Love, P1. 1"
•Tower of Power, "You're Still A Young Man"
•Thee Sacred Souls, "Can I Call You Rose?"
•The Altons, "Soon Enough"
•Thee Sinseers feat. Joey Quinones, "Seems Like"
•Mikey Jimenez, "Takin' All My Lovin'"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Suraya Mohamed, with editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's best new music round-up: Omar Apollo, Karol G and Papo Vazquez

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre round up their favorite new tracks, including heartbroken music from Omar Apollo, a mix of jazz and Afro-Puerto Rican sounds from Papo Vazquez and a controversial new merengue electrónico track from Karol G.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Omar Apollo, "Empty"
•Los Cenzontles, "Different Drum"
•Mabe Fratti, "Oidos" and "Intento fallido"
•Karol G, "Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido"
•Gonzalo Rubalcaba and Hamilton de Holanda, "Mandalagh"
•Papo Vazquez and Mighty Pirates Troubadours, "Plena Pa'Los Apache"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Super-producer Edgar Barrera on turning old-school genres into pop hits

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Even if you don't know Edgar Barrera's name, you know his work. The multiple Grammy-winning writer and producer has worked with dozens of the biggest names in Latin music — Bad Bunny, Maluma, Karol G, Camilo — the list goes on. But he's also one of the main forces pushing regional Mexican into the mainstream over the past few years, and turning Pan-Latin sounds into pop perfection.

This week on Alt.Latino, Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre visit Barrera in his studio, as he breaks down how he makes a hit song.

Songs featured in this episode:
•Toy Selectah, "Hay Guey"
•El Cuarteto de Nos, "Enamorado tuyo"
•Grupo Frontera, Nicki Nicole, "Desquite"
•Manuel Turizo and Marshmello, "El Merengue"
•Carin León and Maluma, "Según Quién"

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Alt.Latino's favorite music of 2024 (so far)

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

To mark the halfway point of 2024, Felix Contreras, Anamaria Sayre and NPR Culture Desk producer Isabella Gomez Sarmiento run down their favorite releases of the year so far, from a career-defining release from Nathy Peluso, a leveling up from Argentine rapper Trueno, introspective jazz from Melissa Aldana and so much more.
Songs featured in this episode:

•Trueno, "Tranky Funky"
•Kali Uchis, "Dame Beso //Muévete"
•Lau Noah ft. Gaby Moreno, "Aunque Suene Bonito"
•Carlos Ares, "Amigo"
•Angelica Garcia, "Gemini"
•Melissa Aldana, "I Know You Know"
•Nathy Peluso, "Legendario"
•Reyna Tropical, "Cartagena"
•Daymé Arocena (feat. Vicente García), "A Fuego Lento"
•Akapellah (feat. Al2 El Aldeano, Faker), "Ni Con Money"
•The Marias, "Run Your Mouth"
•Grupo Frontera, "Me Hizo Un Favor"
•Alvaro Diaz, Feid, "Gatitas Sandungueras Vol. 1"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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The National Recording Registry's best Spanish language songs (and what it's missing)

Wed, 29 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The Library of Congress' National Recording Registry is more than just a collection of music and sound — it's a reflection of who we are as a country. In April, two new Spanish language songs were added to the registry: Juan Gabriel's "Amor Eterno" and Héctor Lavoe's "El Cantante."

This week on Alt.Latino, Felix and Ana take the opportunity to dive into the Spanish language songs that have made it into the historic collection, as well as share their dream picks for what should be chosen next.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Héctor Lavoe, "El Cantante"
•Juan Gabriel, "Amor Eterno (En Vivo [En el Palacio de Bellas Artes])"
•Buena Vista Social Club, "Chan Chan"
•Buena Vista Social Club, "Orgullecida"
•Buena Vista Social Club, "El Carretero"
•Santana, "Oye Como Va"
•Lydia Mendoza, "Mal Hombre (Cold-Hearted Man)"
•Dizzy Gillespie feat. Chano Pozo, "Manteca"
•Ivy Queen, "Quiero Bailar"
•Jose Feliciano, "El Reloj"
•
Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's best new music round-up: Wyatt Flores, Danny Ocean and Grupo Frontera

Wed, 15 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Ana and Felix collect their favorite recent releases from the past few months, including new material from the breakout regional band Grupo Frontera, a country/Latin cross-over in the music of Wyatt Flores, a new song from groundbreaking rapper Mala Rodriguez and more.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66, "Mas Que Nada"
•Luis Muñoz, "Crescent Moon"
•Mala Rodriguez, "Casi Nada [Explicit]"
•Alih Jay, "Bang Bang (Mi Baby Me Mató)"
•Cher, "Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)"
•Grupo Frontera, "Me Hizo Un Favor"
•Wyatt Flores, "Half Life"
•Danny Ocean, "Cero Condiciones [Explicit]"
•Fabiola Méndez, "Lamento en Celinés"
•Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso, "EL ÚNICO"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's favorite Tiny Desk Contest entries

Wed, 01 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

It's the 10th annual Tiny Desk contest and there's been a strong showing of Latin artists behind desks across the United States and Puerto Rico.

Felix and Ana sifted through all the entries and pulled their favorites from artists with roots all across the Americas. And if one of them ends up winning, you can thank us for the introduction.

Songs featured in this episode:

•Cathia, "Taza de Café"
•Manu Manzo, "Celos"
•Mireya Ramos and the Poor Choices, "Quiero Volver"
•Flaco el Jandro, "Lluvia Pesada"
•Los Quinceañeros, "Guero"
•La Doña, "Loser Girl"
•Alejandro Aranda, "Pieces"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's best new music round-up: Angélica Garcia, Young Miko and The Mavericks

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras round up their favorite new music, from Puerto Rican rapper Young Miko's boundary-pushing new music, to Alejandro Escovedo's genre-bending rock and Angelica Garcia's electro-cumbia.

Songs featured in this episode:
• Young Miko, "Tamagotchi"
• The Mavericks, "Moon & Stars (with Sierra Ferrell)"
• Angélica Garcia, "Juanita"
• Alejandro Escovedo, "Castañuelas"
• Nella, Yendry, "Veinte Años"
• Sheila E., "Bemba Colorá (ft. Gloria Estefan and Mimy Succar)"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino, and our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Tracing the history of Latino artists making country music

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 07:00:40 +0000

The release of Beyoncés Cowboy Carter has sparked a national conversation about who gets to sing country music and the complex roots of the genre. Which got Alt.Latino thinking — what about the Latinos in country?

This week, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras travel to Austin, Texas to speak with AmeriChicana musician Carrie Rodriguez about the difference between violin and fiddle, strings and "strangs," and who gets to play country music.

Songs featured:
•Carin Leon, Leon Bridges: "It Was Always You (Siempre Fuiste Tu)"
•Cuco Sanchez: "La Cama de Piedra"
•Merle Haggard: "Big City"
•Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys: "San Antonio Rose"
•Robert Earl Keen: "Feelin' Good Again"
•Chip Taylor, Carrie Rodriguez: "Dirty Little Texas Story"
•Eva Garza: "Quiero Verte Una Vez Mas"
•Rick Trevino: "Doctor Time"
•Ruben Ramos: "Crying Time"
•Sammy Arriaga: "Tennessee Whiskey - Spanglish"
•The Mavericks: "There Goes My Heart"
•Louie TheSinger: "Come and Take It"
•Carrie Rodriguez: "I Dreamed I Was Lola Beltran"
•
Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino, and our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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What do we really want from Shakira?

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 07:00:13 +0000

Shakira just released her first album in seven years, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, and most listeners and critics have high praise. But this episode of Alt.Latino puts the record to the test.

Felix Contreras, Anamaria Sayre and NPR's Isabella Gomez Sarmiento talk about what makes a Shakira record a Shakira record, how pop artists reinvent themselves and loving your favorite artists even if you don't always love their music.

Songs featured in this episode:
•Shakira: "Puntería"
•Shakira: "La Fuerte"
•Shakira: "Obtener un Si"
•Shakira: "El Jefe"
•Paul Simon: "You Can Call Me Al"
•Shakira: "Cómo Dónde y Cuándo"
•Santana: "Smooth"
•Shakira: "Cohete"
•Karol G, Shakira: "TQG"
•Miles Davis: "Bitches Brew"
•Shakira: "Monotonía"
•Shakira: "Escondite Ingles"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino, and our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Alt.Latino's best new music round-up: Elsa y Elmar, Julieta Eugenio, Esteman and more

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 07:00:37 +0000

The weather's heating up and so are the music releases. The hosts of Alt.Latino share their most quintessentially them picks, with Latin jazz across the board from Felix and indie pop-rock bops from Ana.

The two sit down to ping-pong favorite picks back and forth from different parts of the country — plus, Felix puts Ana's picks to an impromptu test.

Featured tracks:

Lara Project, "Extraños"
Julieta Eugenio, "Breath I"
Esteman, Villano Antillano, "Noches de Verano"
Rodrigo Recabarren, Pablo Menares, Yago Vazquez, "Santiago"
Elsa y Elmar, "entre las piernas"
Hurray for the Riff Raff, "Hawkmoon"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino, and our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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A deep dive into Cuba's rich musical history, reported from Havana

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Is it really a good idea to take a vacation with your coworkers? If you're part of the Alt.Latino team, it is.
Last month Alt.Latino co-host Anamaria Sayre decided to join Felix Contreras on a planned trip to attend the 39th annual Havana Jazz Festival, an international event that attracts fans of both Cuban music and jazz from around the world. Spread out among several historic venues around the Cuban capital city, the team spent eight days taking in the sights and sounds of one of the oldest cities in Latin America. Hours before they returned home, Felix and Ana recorded this episode reflecting on everything they heard and the legacy of Cuba's musical diversity.

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Alt.Latino's best new music round-up: Residente, La Yegros and El Cuarteto de Nos

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

As the chill remains in the air for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere and the heat of summer warms up the South, we take time to listen to new music from both parts of the world.

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre round up their favorite new music, including Southern Cone rock and cumbia, atmospheric vocals from the U.S. and even some delicate yet emotionally powerful music from the Catalan region of Spain.

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino and our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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We round up the greatest boleros ever, with help from artists and listeners

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:00:24 +0000

Nothing captures the agony of love, loss, hope and redemption like the song form known across all of Latin America: the bolero.

Last December, UNESCO declared the bolero "an intangible cultural heritage of humanity" and "an indispensable part of the Latin American sentimental song." And given that Valentine's Day is coming up, Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre did something special this week, in honor of this news: they asked some of their favorite artists and show listeners to share their most-loved boleros, and break down exactly what makes them so special. Join Felix and Ana as they laugh, cry and sing a little to the love songs of the ages.

And be sure to check out the playlists we made for this episode, feature Ana and Felix's picks, as well as the selections from featured artists and listeners, on Spotify and Apple Music.

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino and our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Ana Tijoux: On why it took 10 years to release her new album 'Vida'

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Vocalist Ana Tijoux has been a frequent guest on Alt.Latino. That's because ever since her US debut, 1977, was released in 2010, Tijoux had been at the forefront of Latin music that celebrates creative innovation, themes of social justice and fierce independence.
In this week's episode the Chilean musician talks to Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre about why that spirit of innovation has been more or less silent for the last 10 years, and how her new album, Vida, is not only a chance to catch up, but also a deeply moving look back.

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with production support from Suraya Mohamed and Isabella Gomez Sarmiento. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Alt.Latino's best new music roundup: Helado Negro, Gaby Moreno and Ana Tijoux

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 12:32:28 +0000

In the earliest days of the show, Alt.Latino's mailbox was usually piled high with CDs of new music from both emerging and well-known artists.

Now, Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre's email and social media accounts continue to open up new musical worlds at Alt.Latino and — in turn — all of you. The show starts 2024 with some great tracks from names you may know and a couple of bands that Felix and Ana think deserve wider recognition.

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with production support from Suraya Mohamed. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's favorite music of 2023

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

While 2022 may have been a year completely dominated by a certain sad summer reggaeton album, 2023 drew its power from a set of familiar sounds that took on new prominence: tubas, accordions and a whole lot of lively, sneakily danceable beats. As we've been talking about on Alt.Latino for some time, Mexican Regional music broke through in a big way this year, and we found it incredible to witness the most boisterous and uncompromising sounds from that long tradition make their way across the world and to the top of the charts.

A strong feeling of authenticity to place and experience was palpable across the spectrum of Latin albums released in 2023, from the most popular to those deserving of more attention. To review all there was to love about Spanish-language music this year, hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Syare sat down with producer Isabella Gomez Sarmiento to discuss the ways musicians danced fearlessly across genre lines while showing up as their complete selves more than ever before.

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Regional Goes Global, Part 3: How a magical Mexican town keeps banda tradition alive

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 08:00:05 +0000

You know all those tubas and brass instruments you hear behind your favorite regional Mexican hits? That's banda sinaloense and this week Alt.Latino wraps up the Regional Goes Global series with a visit to Sinaloa, Mexico, the birthplace of the genre.

Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras visit the picturesque town Mocorito, a pueblo magico where tradition and pride in the musical heritage runs deep. That's the case even among members of the drug cartels, which are responsible for some of the country's societal ills. It's a complex story as passionate and heartfelt as the music that stretches from the hills of Sinaloa to this side of the U.S.-Mexico border.

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with production support from Lilly Quiroz, Suraya Mohamed, Josephine Nyounai and Natalia Fidelholtz. The editor for this episode is Jacob Ganz, and our project manager is Grace Chung. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Regional Goes Global, Part 2: A band finds its voice amid a storm of controversy

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

For the second episode of Alt.Latino's regional Mexican music series, hosts Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras interview the rising family band Yahritza y Su Esencia in its hometown of Yakima, Wash. The two discover that the U.S.-Mexico border looms large in this regional Mexican moment, especially for Yahritza y Su Esencia — not strictly because of the music's obvious Mexican roots, but also the ways in which the border can create an "us" and "them" dynamic. The band's struggles with musical and personal identity also reflect the real struggles that millions of U.S.-born folks with Mexican heritage face. And what started as a musical journey for Ana and Felix has now become a personal journey.

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with production support from Janice Llamoca, Shelby Hawkins, Suraya Mohamed and Natalia Fidelholtz. The editor for this episode is Jacob Ganz and, our project manager is Grace Chung. Hazel Cills is the podcast editor and digital editor for Alt.Latino. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Regional Goes Global, Part 1: Finding Peso Pluma's music revolution in Nashville

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Earlier this year, Peso Pluma — a 24-year-old who grew up in between Guadalajara, Jalisco, and San Antonio — became the first regional Mexican artist to hit No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200 chart. Something in the music industry was changing. Streaming numbers for regional Mexican shot up astronomically, as the musical stylings of banda and norteño made their way onto the Coachella main stage and burgeoning stars like Peso Pluma began to book their first U.S. tours in major markets. But what accounted for regional Mexican's rise? And what does the genre's continued popularity say about not just changing trends in the Latin music industry, but the changing shape of America?

For the next three episodes of Alt.Latino, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras dive into the regional Mexican explosion, revealing the complex relationships both Mexicans and Mexican Americans have with identity from either side of the border. In this first episode, Felix and Anamaria travel to Nashville, Tenn., to witness Peso Pluma's performance and to try to understand the root of the phenomenon, through their own personal experiences and the people they meet along the way.

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Janice Llamoca and Joaquin Cotler, with production support from Shelby Hawkins, Suraya Mohamed, Natalia Fidelholtz and Lauren Migaki. The editor for this episode is Jacob Ganz and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Marinero: How the diversity of the Bay Area shaped the artist's approach to music

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Recently Ana and Felix traveled to NPR member station KQED in San Francisco to meet Alt.Latino listeners and interview the musician Marinero, who has deep musical and familial roots in the Bay Area. This week's show is a recording of that live interview, full of great music as well as lots of laughs.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Suraya Mohamed. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Maluma: On becoming a dad, hustling across genres and reggaeton's rise in Colombia

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 15:35:41 +0000

The Colombian singer Maluma has a lot to be excited about these days — a world tour, a new album and a shot at exploring a different part of his humanity: being a parent.

The artist has often felt a sense of responsibility: to support up and coming artists he seeks out on social media and to showcase a more joyful, loving side of Colombia to the world. And, now, responsibility is about to take on a whole new meaning.

Following a tear-filled performance at the Tiny Desk, the artist sat down with Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre to talk about what it means now to have two loves of his life.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Suraya Mohamed. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Becky G: Why the Mexican American pop star always identifies as '200%'

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 15:18:47 +0000

Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras sit down with Becky G, right after her forthcoming Tiny Desk performance, to talk about the cultural mash-up of her music, her philosophy for working with women in the industry and representing her Mexican heritage at Coachella.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Isabella Gomez Sarmiento. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Dissecting the Latin Grammy noms, from Regional Mexican snubs to Edgar Barrera love

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 14:20:25 +0000

Anamaria Sayre, Felix Contreras and producer Isabella Gomez Sarmiento sit down to talk some real chisme this week — a special episode dedicated to the Latin Grammy nominations. Was there really a regional snub and what does it say about the way we choose to elevate our own art?

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Suraya Mohamed. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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It's 'El Tiny' season — and Alt.Latino has the lineup

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras preview the artists coming to play Tiny Desk performances for their 'El Tiny' takeover, including indie explosion Kali Uchis returning home to Colombian beats, pop star Becky G debuting some Mexican regional soul and "La Caballota" herself Ivy Queen boasting pure boricua pride.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Cher Vincent. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Omar Montes: Why the Spanish artist thinks the best school for flamenco is the street

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 09:00:31 +0000

Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras sit down with Spanish artist Omar Montes to talk about why he'll never lose his flamenco influences, expressing the oppression of his Romani ancestors in his music and why the rhythms of reggaeton and flamenco aren't so different. This interview is in Spanish. Please find an English version of the conversation on our website.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was mixed by Janice Llamoca, with help from Isabella Gomez Sarmiento and Natalia Fidelholtz. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino's Best New Music Round-Up: DannyLux, Kali Uchis and Dario Acosta Teich

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 09:00:35 +0000

This week, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras round up their favorite music from the last few months, including Mexican bedroom pop from Bratty, jazz from Argentinian composer Dario Acosta Teich, a new song from rising regional star DannyLux and more.

To hear more of Alt.Latino's favorite music, follow our Spotify and Apple Music playlists.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited, mixed and produced by Janice Llamoca. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Eladio Carrión: Why the athlete-turned-rapper thinks everything in life is practice

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 09:00:59 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with the Puerto Rican hip-hop artist Eladio Carrión to discuss what drives him, learning Spanish through music and how he's changing the game of Latin rap.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Cher Vincent, with production support from Suraya Mohamed and Robin Hilton. Isabella Gomez Sarmiento also provided production and editorial support for this episode. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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YEИDRY: How she uses music to bridge her Dominican roots and Italian upbringing

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 16:22:33 +0000

Anamaria Sayre speaks with YEИDRY, the Dominican-born, Italian-raised singer about using music as a tool to marry her two worlds.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Isabella Gomez Sarmiento. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our production assistant is Sofia Seidel. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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Alt.Latino presents the best music of 2023 (so far)

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 09:00:43 +0000

Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras round up their favorite albums of 2023 so far, from the modern corridos tumbados of Peso Pluma, a new, reimagined version of one of Fito Paez's greatest albums, dream pop from Y La Bamba and more. Plus: a run down of regional Mexican's current explosion.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Suraya Mohamed. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our production assistant is Sofia Seidel. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Sheila E.: On how faith and family shaped the drummer's eclectic music career

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 09:00:22 +0000

Felix Contreras sits down with percussion icon Sheila Escovedo, aka Sheila E., to talk about the influence of the Bay Area on her music, holding her own in the face of music industry sexism and why drumming is a language of its own.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Suraya Mohamed. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our production assistant is Sofia Seidel. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Alt.Latino's Best New Music Round-Up: Eduardo Cabra, Santa Fe Klan and Elsa y Elmar

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 09:00:47 +0000

This week, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras round up their favorite music from the last few months, including new work from the prolific Eduardo Cabra, surprisingly straight-ahead regional from Santa Fe Klan and a premiere of a new song from Elsa y Elmar.

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Mabe Fratti: The cellist on the importance of imperfection and going to extremes

Wed, 24 May 2023 09:00:48 +0000

Anamaria Sayre sits down with the experimental, Guatemalan cellist Mabe Fratti to discuss the admiration she's developed for imperfection, finding a musical community in Mexico City and how religion sparked a personal rebellion.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Robin Hilton. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our production assistant is Sofia Seidel. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Karol G: Why the Colombian superstar will never stop being a 'happy heartbreak girl'

Wed, 17 May 2023 09:00:30 +0000

While coming up with the concept for her new album Mañana Será Bonito, Colombian superstar Karol G had an epiphany that would change her life: what if she was just more herself? Anamaria Sayre sits down with global superstar Karol G to chat her latest evolution.

Audio for this episode of 'Alt.Latino' was edited and mixed by Robin Hilton. Our show editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our production assistant is Sofia Seidel. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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Alt.Latino's Best New Music Round-Up: Bad Bunny, Grupo Frontera, Becky G and more

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 09:00:01 +0000

This week, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras round up their favorite music from the last few months, kicking things off with a surprising collab from Bad Bunny and regional Mexican group Grupo Frontera. Plus, new music from Becky G, Gaby Moreno, Esteman and more.

This episode of 'Alt.Latino' was produced by Robin Hilton. Our editor is Hazel Cills and our project manager is Grace Chung. Our production assistants are Jerusalem Truth and Sofia Seidel and our intern is Pilar Galván. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

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La Brega: Bonus Track — Songs for the Future of Puerto Rico

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 09:00:19 +0000

From our friends at WNYC Studios and Futuro Studios, today we're sharing an episode from the latest season of the podcast La Brega — which traces the history of Puerto Rican music across eight transformative songs.

In this special bonus episode of the show, La Brega goes behind the music with the artists featured on La Brega: El Álbum — including RaiNao, Xenia Rubinos, ÌFÉ and Ana Macho.

La Brega: El Álbum is sponsored by Marguerite Casey Foundation. This season of La Brega is made possible by the Mellon Foundation.

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Girl Ultra: On Mexico City's 'haunted' energy and why she secretly loves sad songs

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 09:00:52 +0000

Across her evolving discography, which includes everything from R&B ballads to danceable electronic beats, Girl Ultra has solidified her approach to deep, dark songs of love and heartbreak. In this episode, Anamaria Sayre sits down with the up-and-coming Mexico City singer to talk lost loves, why the city is "haunted" and how she copes with a nostalgic heart.

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Camilo Lara: How Mexico's musical 'double agent' seeks a universal dance floor

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 09:00:28 +0000

Anamaria Sayre sits down with world-building producer and Mexican Institute of Sound frontman Camilo Lara to talk about using his fearless intuition to help artists find their voice in the burgeoning hub of Latin music.

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Radio Ambulante: Getting Down

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 09:00:56 +0000

From our friends at Radio Ambulante, today we're sharing a thought provoking episode from their latest season. Puerto Rican Patricia Velasquez has spent her whole life listening to reggaeton. It's part of her identity. But when she was questioned about the content of the songs, she began an investigation that would lead her to create something completely new about the musical genre. This episode is in Spanish.

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Julieta Venegas: Why the Mexican pop icon wouldn't call herself a pioneer

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 09:00:42 +0000

Anamaria Sayre sits down with Mexican pop icon Julieta Venegas to discuss her role as a trailblazing female vocalist and mom to a daughter with impeccably cool music taste.

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Alt.Latino's Best New Music Round-Up: Karol G, Y La Bamba, The Latin Dead and more

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 10:00:18 +0000

Our digital mailbag continues to overflow with tons of new music from every corner of the Spanish-speaking world. Yet even as we update our weekly playlists on both Spotify and Apple Music, we still have tracks that we think you need to hear. On this week's show, Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras round up their favorite new music from the last few months.

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Adrian Quesada: How the U.S.-Mexico border shaped the prolific producer's fluid sound

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 10:00:05 +0000

Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras sit down with prolific producer and creator Adrian Quesada to discuss his experimental approach to border-driven sonic expression.

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Cimafunk: How his Afro-Cuban funk tells a bigger story about the African diaspora

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 16:15:13 +0000

Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras sit down with Cimafunk to talk about how he's created his singular sound, the complex African lineage of his music and why his band is his "tribe."

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Reyna Tropical: How Fabi Reyna learned to listen to her revolutionary intuition

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 10:00:56 +0000

Anamaria Sayre sits down with Fabi Reyna of Reyna Tropical to talk about the process of trusting yourself, how music saved her life and moving forward after losing her creative collaborator Sumohair.

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Encore: The Cuban roots of rock and roll

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 10:00:28 +0000

Can you hear the cha-cha-cha in The Rolling Stones' "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction"? Or the mambo in Ray Charles' "What'd I Say"? This week, Alt.Latino revisits a classic episode from 2019 and takes a closer look at the Cuban roots of rock and roll.

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Encore: Selena's spark still shines

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 10:00:44 +0000

Since her death in 1995, Selena Quintanilla-Pérez' legacy has spread far beyond her Tejano music roots. This week, Alt.Latino revisits a classic episode and explores how Selena became a powerful symbol of Latina identity.

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Encore: An Alt.Latino Christmas, with Cantigas in concert

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 10:00:09 +0000

¡Felices fiestas y'all! This week, Alt.Latino revisits a classic episode from 2014 to enjoy the music of D.C. Latino choir, Cantigas.

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Alt.Latino presents our favorite music of 2022

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 10:00:38 +0000

Anamaria Sayre sits down with Rolling Stone's Julyssa Lopez and NPR Music contributor Stefanie Fernández to talk about (some of) their favorite albums of the year.

Show notes: You can help us improve Alt.Latino by taking some time to answer questions about the show. Please tell us what you like and how we could improve by going to npr.org/altlatinosurvey.

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Encore: Cumbia, the musical backbone of Latin America

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 10:00:25 +0000

Whether you're from Ushuaia or East Los Angeles, you've likely heard cumbia blaring from a stereo. This week, Alt.Latino revisits a classic episode from 2015 and takes a closer look at the musical backbone of the Americas.

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Linda Ronstadt: On getting to fully embrace her Mexican heritage in her music

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 10:00:34 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with Linda Ronstadt, who recently released her book Feels Like Home: A Song for the Sonoran Borderlands, to talk about her Mexican heritage, wanting to sing in Spanish earlier in her career and not feeling like the "quintessential American girl."

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Hermanos Gutiérrez: How their cinematic guitar music reconnected them as brothers

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 10:00:52 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with Alejandro and Estevan Gutiérrez to talk about their musical legacy, sad songs and creating strong familial bonds through music.

Show notes: You can help us improve Alt.Latino by taking some time to answer questions about the show. Please tell us what you like and how we could improve by going to npr.org/altlatinosurvey.

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Silvana Estrada: On cultivating intimacy and generosity in her live performances

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 10:00:04 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with Silvana Estrada to talk about vulnerability, bringing light into her shows and the lessons her parents have given her.

Show notes: You can help us improve Alt.Latino by taking some time to answer questions about the show. Please tell us what you like and how we could improve by going to npr.org/altlatinosurvey.

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Natalia Lafourcade: How making original music again helped grow her 'inner garden'

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 10:00:37 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with Natalia Lafourcade to talk about interpreting old songs, taking things slow and releasing her first album of original material in seven years.

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Canción Exploder: Ibeyi

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 09:00:25 +0000

From our friends at Canción Exploder, we're sharing a conversation with Lisa-Kaindé and Naomi Díaz from the musical group Ibeyi. The twins discuss "Sangoma," the first song off their album Spell 31. This interview is in Spanish.

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Angélica Negrón: The genre-subverting composer on embracing all sides of her identity

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 09:00:49 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with Angélica Negrón to talk about the importance of representation, making music with plants and what inspired her to begin composing.

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Carlos Santana: Why 1972's divisive, spiritual 'Caravanserai' wasn't 'career suicide'

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 09:00:06 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with Carlos Santana to talk about nurturing his spirit, growing as an artist and 50 years of Caravanserai, an iconic album he co-produced with drummer Michael Shrieve.

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Snooze: Rosario Dawson

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 09:00:18 +0000

From our friends at the LAist Studios' podcast Snooze, host Megan Tan sits down with Rosario Dawson to discuss relationships, abuela's sage advice and the things in life that people put off.

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iLe: How the rhythms and resilience of Puerto Rico shape her music

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 09:00:15 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with iLe to talk about salsa music, Puerto Rico's role in her art and being la bebé of the family.

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Farruko: On his partying persona and religious transformation (English version)

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 09:00:53 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with Carlos Efrén Reyes Rosado to talk about creating the character of Farruko, developing a relationship with God and spreading a message of love.

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Farruko: On his partying persona and religious transformation (Spanish Version)

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 09:00:15 +0000

Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre sit down with Carlos Efrén Reyes Rosado to talk about creating the character of Farruko, developing a relationship with God and spreading a message of love. This episode is in Spanish, please find an English translation of the conversation at NPR.org.

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Carla Morrison: How a break from music and a move to Paris led to a personal rebirth

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 09:00:26 +0000

Felix Contreras sits down with Carla Morrison to talk about her new sound, the importance of mental health and the art of the Parisian non.

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Alisa Amador: Why the Tiny Desk Contest winner almost gave up on music

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 12:02:38 +0000

Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras sit down with Tiny Desk Contest winner Alisa Amador to talk about intentionality in community building, almost quitting music and finding nourishment in her art.

Correction: An earlier version of this episode incorrectly said Linda Diaz won the 2021 Tiny Desk Contest. She won in 2020.

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Rosalía: How the genre-bending pop star found her confidence

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 12:44:57 +0000

Anamaria Sayre sits down with Spanish superstar Rosalía, who just earned eight Latin Grammy nominations, to talk about her musical inspirations, divine sensuality and constant pull to transform.

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Omar Apollo: Ballet Folklórico OG, Pharrell Whisperer, and Hot Sauce Entrepreneur

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 09:00:26 +0000

Anamaria Sayre sits down with R&B darling Omar Apollo to talk about his experiences growing up in Indiana and becoming a role model for queer Latinx kids.

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Alt.Latino: Where we've been and what's next

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 18:21:08 +0000

After an extended hiatus, Alt.Latino returns with longtime host Felix Contreras and new co-host Anamaria Sayre. On this reintroduction to the program, the two talk about how the landscape of Latin music and culture has changed since Alt.Latino started more than a decade ago, and what it means for the show going forward.

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Reintroducing: Alt.Latino

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 17:02:17 +0000

Longtime host Felix Contreras introduces the program's new co-host, Anamaria Sayre — and gets a blessing from her abuelita.

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From the archives: flamenco, rock and songs of rebellion from Spain

Sun, 03 Jul 2022 13:00:22 +0000

Alt.Latino intern Vita Dadoo revisits podcast episodes to feature three conversations about music from Spain and explores the musical traditions that inspired these artists as well as the impact they made in the Spanish-speaking world.

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From the archives: the many faces of 'Regional Mexican'

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 13:00:49 +0000

Alt.Latino intern Vita Dadoo parses through the podcast archive to feature two conversations on the musical styles referred to as "Regional Mexican," its history, and its rising popularity among audiences in the U.S., Mexico and beyond.

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From the archives: interviews with Ibeyi, Ivy Queen and Silvina Moreno

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 13:00:08 +0000

Alt.Latino intern Cat Sposato takes over the show to feature more stories for Women's History Month.

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From the archives: Latinas in punk

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 13:00:54 +0000

The San Antonio based punk band Fea is featured in a discussion about Latinas and punk.

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