El Combo

Killer compilation of 14 cumbia tracks from 1963 to 1983 of South-American female singers.

Marking the 60th anniversary of Jamaica’s independence in August 2022, this celebratory album collection showcases an array of major hits and previously unissued tracks all of which were recorded in the year that the island became a sovereign nation: 1962. The first of the two discs focuses on the biggest home-grown sellers of the year, featuring ska and r&b hits by such celebrated foundation artists as Jimmy Cliff, Derrick Morgan, Owen Gray and Don Drummond, while the second disc comprises previously unissued recordings, produced by the country’s leading sound system operator-turned-record producer, Duke Reid.

It took about five years for Ace to get from the fourth volume to the fifth one in its Return of Mod Jazz series, but this 2005 compilation upholds the high standards set by its predecessors. The two-dozen tracks represent '60s jazz at its most accessible and dance-oriented, often (though not always) emphasizing groovy organ parts and swinging piano, and mixing instrumentals with some vocal numbers. It's not the kind of stuff they'll teach in jazz history courses, but as for fun modern jazz with a liberal does of blues, soul, and pop influences, it's hard to beat.

Various Artists - Ibiza Winter Session 2019 (25 Lounge Cookies), including the most beautiful "Lounge" stuff from Ibiza's bars and beaches. Tracks and remixes from artists like Marc Hartman, Tigerforest, Karen Gibson Roc, Svendaq, James Butler, Mario Santo and more.