The Sound of Candombe

“The Sound of Candombe” is a rhythmic journey through the streets of Uruguay, showcasing the pulse and diversity of candombe. Rooted in Afro-Uruguayan tradition, this playlist captures the essence of the “llamada,” where the collective power of tamboriles—chico, repique, and piano—drive the groove. From foundational tracks like Eduardo Da Luz’s “Las Calles” and Cuareim 1080’s “Cuerda de Tambores,” to genre-fusing interpretations by artists like La Calenda Beat and Los Molembos, this set blends pure heritage with modern flair.

Across a wide selection of deep cuts and festive live recordings, there’s a strong representation of the genre’s evolution while staying true to its beat-driven roots. Tracks like “Soy Toda Candombe” by Mónica Santos and “La Lavandera” by Palacatún let vocals shine alongside percussion, while instrumental pieces like “Candombe (Toque de Calle) 3” keep the spotlight on the rhythms. Whether traditional or experimental, the common thread is the unmistakable cadence of the drum.