Los de Abajo: Los de Abajo

Alterna-Latin vibes aplenty shimmy off of Los de Abajo (Luakabop 46974; 43:05), introducing the young, feisty Mexico City-based band to a north o’ the border audience. They manage to mix up a range of Latin rhythms, Afro-Cuban ideas, and traces of punk attitude; raw edges are welcome. It’s raucous good fun, and, probably not coincidentally, is reminiscent of some of the Latin-minded music of Luakabop CEO David Byrne. It’s another good example of the way that Byrne and Co. have helped in expanding listening horizons in the Latin American area.

Originally Published March 1, 1999