Ernesto Lechner While the massively successful albums by major stars such as Bad Bunny, Peso Pluma and Karol G will be cherished for years to come, 2023 also saw the release of some extraordinary Latin sessions that did not enjoy all the recognition they deserved.
Think of this list as a collection of B-sides. These lesser-known albums are some of the year’s best, from ranchera and bossa nova to Argentine shoegaze and Cuban danzón.
Valenzuela’s previous outing, 2022’s “Vida Tan Bonita,” was one of the best Latin albums of the decade. Released independently, her new effort uses the anatomy of a breakup as a foundation for her ambitious artistry: sophisticated melodies, knotty keyboard patterns and a trained vocal range that can reach frightening levels of intensity.
The anthemic “Continente” reveals the precise proportions of the Chilean singer’s musical recipe: one part pop hit single, two parts art-rock genius.
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