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
Jim White
A Funny Little Cross to Bear
YAEL NAIM & DAVID DONATIEN
She was a Boy
STEVE FORBERT
Strange Names & New Sensations
Various Artists
Signature Sounds: 10th Anniversary Collection
PALEFACE
I Just Wanna Play Guitar
PAUL WESTERBURG
Open Season
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