Latin American Music Suggestions

[Urizen]

First of all, let me make this clear - I'm a Canadian of Anglo-Celtic descent who plays both traditional and modern music connected to my culture. However, I think it is important to respectfully explore other cultures. As such, I am interested in learning more about Latin American music - specifically, what artists and music are essential listening. I've taken an interest in Latin American percussion instruments (cabasa, claves, shakers, etc.) and I'd like to learn more. I'd also like to get a glimpse into what is expected of a bassist who accompanies Latin American music. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[twinjet]

First of all, let me make this clear - I'm a Canadian of Anglo-Celtic descent who plays both traditional and modern music connected to my culture. However, I think it is important to respectfully explore other cultures. As such, I am interested in learning more about Latin American music - specifically, what artists and music are essential listening. I've taken an interest in Latin American percussion instruments (cabasa, claves, shakers, etc.) and I'd like to learn more. I'd also like to get a glimpse into what is expected of a bassist who accompanies Latin American music. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Here's a great start.
Latin Music/Technique sub-thread?

Other great artists/ensembles:

*Airto Moreira (Brazilian)
*Antonio Carlos Jobim (Brazilian)
Brazil '66/Brazil '77 (Brazilian)
*Buena Vista Social Club (Cuban)
*Chano Pozo (Latin jazz)
*Israel "Cachao" Lopez (Cuban)
*João Gilberto (Brazilian)
*Jorge Ben (Brazilian)
Mario Bauza (Cuban/Salsa)
*Machito (Afro-Cuban)
Michel Camilo (American/Latin jazz)
Paquito d'Rivera (American/Latin jazz)
Roberta Sa (Brazilian)
Sexteto Ache "ah-chay" (Cuban)
Stan Getz (American/Latin jazz)

*Asterisked suggestions are considered more ground-breaking/influential over time.

Genre-wise, check out;
Bossa Nova, Forro "fo-ho", Samba (Brazil)
Bachata (Dominican Republic)
Cha-cha (Cuba)
Cumbia (Colombia)
Salsa (Cuban, Mexican, Colombian)

Hope this helps you!

 

[JimK]

Still one of my absolute favourites -
Jerry Gonzalez & The Fort Apache Band.
(Andy Gonzalez on bass)

They play both types of music: Latin and Jazz.

 

[Urizen]

Thanks for the replies!

 

[JimK]

Check them out...