Freshly Baked From Quango

Quango is one of the more interesting record labels around with a great ear towards globally progressive and creative music. Releasing consistently eclectic and soulful material, I periodically check out their new releases to see what's fresh. Here are a few gems from the past year or so.

Gecko Turner: Fess It, Girl
from 2006's Chandalismo Ilustrado

Spaniard Gecko Turner puts out a unique mix of mellow soul/reggae/Brazilian he calls "afromeño". This is a particularly groovy track with a laid back wah wah guitar and a trumpet sprinkled throughout. Nice.

Curumin: Vem Menin
from 2005's Achados e Perdidos

Curumin is a Brazilian artist whose album blends elements of samba, reggae, soul and hip-hop. You can hear all of these styles in just this song alone. Be sure to stick around for the change at the 1:48 mark. I can't wait for summer with this tune!

Fat Freddy's Drop: Wandering Eye
from 2005's Based on a True Story

They've dubbed themselves "hi-tek soul," but New Zealand band Fat Freddy's Drop could just as easily be considered a modern reggae band that incorporates soul and dub. This track is a definite highlight from this stellar debut.