On this installment of World Cafe's Latin Roots series, music producer and singer-songwriter Rachel Faro discusses an Afro-Uruguayan style of Latin music called Candombe.
Separated by a river from Argentina and nestled next to southern Brazil, Uruguay experienced the same influx of African slaves as Brazil, which resulted in a similar but often overlooked musical impact. Played on sets of three drums, Candombe is highly rhythmic; it's been an integral part of carnival celebrations for centuries.
Faro plays an older version of the style by composer and musician Ruben Rada, then introduces listeners to a Candombe-influenced tune from the well-known percussionist Airto Moreira.
Listen to Rachel Faro's essential Candombe playlist on Spotify.
Latin Roots on World Cafe is made possible by a grant from The Wyncote Foundation.
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