Andes-Step: Nicola Cruz and "Colibria"

Some electronica/techno inspired by the native folk music of Ecuador comprises our random tune for today, Colibria. The artist is Nicola Cruz, an Ecuadorian producer who started as a drummer and then went to school as an audio producer. Cruz draws on traditions, particularly the indigenous roots of his home country, and filters it through his contemporary vision. He has dubbed (pun intended) his music "Andes-step." Colibria can be found on Cruz's 2015 album Prender el Alma.

We is Us: Nosotrosound and "Chaskis"

Today our random tune is called Chaskis, and is by the Arizona band Nosotrosound. Originally known as Nosotros, they had to change their name because it was copyrighted by a New Mexico band. Nosotrosound started in Mexico in the late 70s and perform tunes from Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Mexico using traditional instruments. Note: our good friend David Seleme, who Megan and I have known for over 25 years, is a member of this band. Chaskis can be found on Nosotrosound's 1991 album De Los Caminos (under the band name Nosotros).