KCRW’s Global Beat is a series highlighting emerging artists from around the world. Our second season takes us to México, hosted by KCRW DJ Raul Campos alongside our curators, México City DJ and music supervisor Junf, director of Festival NRMAL Moni Saldaña, and NPR’s Betto Arcos.
Alas, the rumors are true. The production team behind KCRW’s Global Beat: México is taking a well-deserved summer hiatus. Fear not, however, this week’s Junf curated episode will keep you grooving well into the dog days.
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Valentina Moretti – “A Diamond In Ashes”
VIDEO EMBED: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfXrZ8yM8eQ
A native of the central Mexican City San Luis Potosí now based in CDMX, multi-instrumentalist Valentina Moretti also appears to live in the future. The artist incorporates AI into her electropop confections which have traveled to points as disparate as the Superbowl and the moon.
But “A Diamond In Ashes” keeps the proceedings decidedly earthbound. Add it to your favorite playlist for driving beachside on a summer night now, and thank us in a few months.
Andrés Arzate – “Dias Raros”
We’re calling it — summer ‘23 has heavy daytime disco vibes written all over it. Not only did undisputed king of the genre Poolside just drop the perfectly hazy jam “Each Night” for Ninja Tune imprint Counter Records, but artists like CDMX producer Andrés Arzate are on the case to ensure that no corner of the globe is left unbathed in gentle sun-drenched beats.
Alaíde – “Agüita Clara”
Classic triple threat — singer, model, actor — Alaíde comes to us from Mexico’s renowned weekend getaway spot Tepoztlán, Morelos. You’ll find the natural beauty and spirituality of her historic home town woven throughout her folk-tronic compositions.
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