2013-02-19
One can hear hints of lead singer Luz Elena Mendoza's Mexican roots on Y La Bamba's second release, Oh February. Whether it's the castanets, the handclaps, or the liberal use of the accordion, Oh February has a mexi-folk feel. Ms. Mendoza's tremolo vocals, often fronting male vocal harmonies, are striking. The rest of this Portland band is skilled, but I'm blown away by Scott Magee's dextrous percussion. All in all this is a fine indie-folk disc that has been expertly produced by The Decemberist's Chris Funk. Rebecca Ruth
GRETEL
The Dregs
BRADFORD LEE FOLK & THE BLUEGRASS PLAYBOYS
Somewhere Far Away
Y LA BAMBA
Oh February
RON SEXSMITH
Long Player Late Bloomer
Justin Townes Earle
Midnight at the Movies
Wyatt Easterling
Divining Rod
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