Sidestepper is a pioneering Colombian band that has deftly stitched together cutting-edge beats with the rich tapestry of Afro-Colombian music, giving birth to an entrancing form of danceable world music. Founded in the mid-1990s by English producer and DJ Richard Blair, Sidestepper began as a studio project blending electronic music with local sounds. Blair, who had worked with Peter Gabriel at Real World Studios and with Colombian icon Carlos Vives, drew inspiration from his experiences in Colombia's vibrant music scene. It wasn't long before Sidestepper evolved from a studio concept into a live band, incorporating musicians such as singer-songwriter Iván Benavides. They gained recognition for their innovative music, which is not just a cross-cultural fusion but a pulsating celebration of Colombia's musical heritage and contemporary electronica.
Sidestepper has significantly influenced the Colombian music scene, widely regarded as one of the precursors of the "electrocumbia" movement that blended traditional cumbia with modern electronic rhythms. With albums like "3 AM (In Beats We Trust)" and "More Grip," the band provided foundational work that inspired other Latin American artists to explore similar fusions. Their later releases, such as "The Buena Vibra Sound System" and "Supernatural Love," have further refined their sound, combining a plethora of Latin music styles with a modern aesthetic. "Supernatural Soul" and "Come See Us Play" underscore their unique ability to connect with audiences through an irresistible mix of groovy beats and traditional elements. Sidestepper stands out as a band that is both a cultural ambassador of Afro-Colombian sounds and a progressive force in the global music landscape.
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