Gilles Peterson has teamed up with the global art initiative Havana Cultura to bring us a two disc collection of some of the newest and best Cuban musical talent.

This is the biggest collection of contemporary Cuban musicians in a single musical initiative since the famous musical export, Buena Vista Social Club, which put Cuba on the world music scene.

Havana Cultura - New Cuba Sound is the culmination of a 12 month project that saw Peterson travel to Cuba to find the very best new musical talent in Havana.

Gilles Peterson has produced 12 brand new recordings on CD one alongside Roberto Fonseca and Vince Vella. Written and recorded in Havana by undiscovered local, street and urban musicians this music has a real raw feeling to it. It's alive and takes you on the most wonderful journey.

The percussion brings these songs to life and mix in with this the genres of Latin, Afro-Jazz, hip hop, funk and pop and you have something truly amazing. From fun fast paced tunes to the sultry sexy and sophisticated slower songs CD one has something for everyone.

CD two is made up of 16 tracks from a selection of the best recent tracks from the best contemporary Cuban artists. Names on this disc include; Kumar, Cubanite 2002, Gente de Zona, Doblo Filo, Kelvis Ochoa, Yusa and Free Hole Negro.

I love the fact that I actually recognise tunes on CD two, such as track 2 'Homenaje A Benny More' and track 11 'Por Un Milagro'. This just shows the world status this music has and how popular it is.

This double disc compilation truly transports you to your own Cuban back yard. Truly fantastic!

9

Helena Rea