Known as the funkiest, finest and hardest working latin orchestra to come of the United States in the last decade, Grupo Fantasma’s trademark sound has translated comprehensively on their new album Sonidos Gold – it’s an incredible and animated performance interwoven with mature and intelligent songwriting that is equally at home with the classic 1960s Fania All-Stars sound AND the progressive benchmark set by artists such as Manu Chao. Guided by the deeply rooted traditions of cumbia, salsa, funk, and pyschedelia this masterful ensemble band has forged a fresh new standard of excellence in latin music. Special guests on the album include legendary saxophonist Maceo Parker, Fania All-Stars pianist and arranger Larry Harlow, trombonist Greg Boyer (Prince, Parliament Funkadelic), and a bonus track/remix by producer Toy Hernandez (Control Machete, Juanes, Alejandro Sanz). Recording and mixing on the album was executed at Stuart Sullivan’s Wire Recording facility in Austin, responsible for notable projects by Sublime, Meat Puppets, and Butthole Surfers. There is no doubt that Sonidos Gold will be remembered as an instant and timeless classic. From the epic and head bobbing entrance of “El Sabio” to the textur...[more]