MANU CHAO

La Radiolina

2007-09-13

As the enfant terrible of Latin alternative music, Manu Chao once again creates a frenzy by mixing rock, punk, salsa, French pop ... and by bouncing from Spanish to French to English. Chao bleeds enthusiasm and creativity and, in his first studio album in six years, he foregoes traditional song structure (choruses, etc.) in favor of guitar scribble. Chao's anti-establishment, anarchist values are present in La Radiolina's 16 tracks (plus five bonus tracks). Track 3, "Politik Kills," is particularly potent, and track 7, "Tristeza Maleza" is a defiant message regarding "seƱor Presidente." But this album is far from dismal. Track 3, the peppy "Rainin in Paradize," and track 7, the flamenco-inspired "Me Llaman Calle," are two danceable highlights. The accessability and worldwide popularity of Chao's work proves that no one blends protest and party quite like he does. Reviewed by Sara Cosgrove

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #World

  • reviewed 06/2008

    CAPERCAILLIE
    Roses and Tears

  • reviewed 11/2015

    Denai Moore
    Elsewhere

  • reviewed 11/2016

    Michel Camilo & Tomatito
    Spain Forever

  • reviewed 08/2009

    HUUN HUUR TU AND CARMEN RIZZO
    Eternal

  • reviewed 08/2016

    Guy Pearce
    Broken Bones

  • reviewed 09/2008

    Various Artists-Calypsoul 70: Caribbean and Calypso Crossover 1969-1979
    Calypsoul 70: Caribbean and Calypso Crossover 1969-1979

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.