New releases last eight weeks: International

Review: Bongo Joe ventures into the Caribbean's musical heart here and spotlights the Dominican Republic's rich musical heritage on Merengue Tipico: Nueva Generacion! which uncovers the essence of Dominican merengue, a sound so often overshadowed in musical discourse. Curated by Xavier Daive, aka Funky Bompa, the compilation reveals rare 60s and 70s gems, unveiling a transformative era post-Trujillo. Daive's 20-year immersion in the Dominican Republic yields original 45s, capturing merengue's evolution in a creatively charged period. Influenced by pioneers like "Tatico" Henriquez, tracks like Rafaelito Roman's 'Que Mala Suerte' exude infectious energy, while Aristides Ramirez's 'Los Lanbones' injects some humour. This compilation transcends reissue norms, offering a deep dive into merengue's roots and thereby enriching global music landscapes.