Makes me dance.

I've been raised in a music driven environment. Turn up the volume, gather around the living room, and dance until you sweat. I couldn't imagine it any other way.

My brother and I were introduced to Latin music at an early age. Our parents would gather the troops and head to Rocky Point, Mexico. We would sit along the beach eating fresh tortillas and blast The Gypsy Kings. Sure you could say, because we're half Mexican it only makes sense to have a family listen to Latin/Hispanic music. Not necessarily. These trips to Mexico were me and my brothers outlet for exploring our culture. We were not raised speaking Spanish, even though my father spoke the language fluently. We were not sheltered from the Hispanic heritage. We were more introduced to its offerings through music and immersion. I would in no way say we were a "traditional" Hispanic family - especially relating to religion. I've recognized that those close around me have taken love to the Hispanic and Latin culture.
(Note: Now, I understand that the terms "Hispanic" and "Latin" carry certain historical weights. I'm not trying to be overly politically correct here. I am just trying to generalize to speak of the music).
Numerous gringo (no offense), OK "white," friends of mine had learned to speak Spanish or had traveled to a Latin/Hispanic country. This definitely makes me feel like a pretend Mexican, but also makes me proud. Spanish is a beautiful language and so is all the music from the culture. I can gather with my friends and salsa, mambo, meringue and rumba. We all have a love for its movements and feelings it delivers.


While living in Santa Fe, I was introduced to a band called Ojos de Brujo. The group collaborated in Barcelona during 2002. Their music is immensely experimental and unparalleled. Their Techari (insert accent above the i) style speaks for itself through their lyrics. Flamenco is dominant when listening to their music. However, you can also point out their flavor of Catalan rumba, hip-hop and hints of Indian beats.
This band is unique with it's style, but also because they began to publish their own work without the help of a label. They toured across the globe in Latin America and the United States. Eventually they established their own label called La Fabrica de Colores. Their music does not speak of politics, but more of social situations. Their music videos are vivid and sensual. Hop on your computer, search for this band. You will discover a highly addicting jipjop flamenkillo!