So with this one I have to spoil the surprise right off...Novalima's "Afro" contains some amazing Afro-Latin grooves. Seriously, this is some of the most moving, laid-back-but-upright samba and bossa nova influenced tunes I've heard in a while. What really makes it work for me is the way they incorporate the electronic elements. Be it synth keys or house beats, this crew really knows how to hold down their sound. This is the first international release from this group of Lima, Peru born producers, so to be exact, these are some amazing Afro-Peruvian grooves.

1. Chinchivi
2. Bandolero
3. Malato
4. Machete
5. Candela
6. Mandinga
7. Zamba Lando
8. Ay Bembe
9. Toromata
10. Cardo
11. Alcajazz
12. Mayoral
13. Regresa/Con La Capilla

From the opening track "Chinchivi" through to the last the music of Novalima rolls out with the brand of smooth warmth that's a Trademark of Latin music. The melodies aren't always expected and sometimes step so quickly around the notes you alomst can't believe it all keeps in time. They've struck a perfect balance between feminine sensuality and masculine machismo with their sound and "Machete" is a perfect example of this, with it's duet of male and female vocals, soft acoustic guitar, and an incredible broken Afro beat that holds it all down so tight.

"candela" comes on with the kind of deep, bubbling bass line Thievery Corporation have taken a strong liking to lately which is met up by some very Latin styled keys and nice cut-up ambient pads that drift through the whole thing. At times the vocals come on like you're at some crazy arena circus but all the elements support each other.

"Mandinga" throws down a really nice deep (deep) house vibe that would go nicely in a set mix with some of Soulphiction's latest.

A quote from Quango actually sums it up perfectly, "Dark but soulful, deep and haunting at times, killer dub basslines with thumping cajon, quijada and conga percussions, layered with 100 year old slavery chants, emotive vocals, and sweet guitars."

Novalima are joined here by a host of legendary Peruvian musicians including Nicomedes Santa Cruz, Lucila Campos, Lucha Reyes, and Zambo Cavero.

Really, really good stuff for those with an ear for deep Latin grooves. Definitely recommended for fans of Thievery Corporation's Latin side, Gotan Project, Zuco 103, or Bebel Gilberto.

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