WOMAD

Radio Mundial

From Puerto Rico, United States

Biography supplied by management, March 2004:New York based Radio Mundial (world radio), was founded by brothers Jean and Richard Shepherd. Together they unleashed the dynamic sounds of their lush harmonies, Jean’s cuatro (Puerto Rico’s national instrument), exciting percussion and a unique songwriting style. The full Radio Mundial experience was born as the band soon began playing its modern fusion of Afro-Latin-inspired funk to packed stages in and around New York. Quickly they built a loyal following of devoted fans, and caught the ears and eyes of legendary music men Gary Kurfirst and Chris Blackwell who promptly signed them to their new indie label, Rx Records. Immediately following their signing Radio Mundial went into the recording studio.Richard and Jean Shepherd produced Radio Mundial’s debut CD La Raíz (The Root). The album features a dynamic blend of African rooted Caribbean and Latin rhythms, funk, soul, reggae, and rock, creating a musical style distinctive to Radio Mundial. Lyrically, La Raíz captures life’s pure essence with songs about love, betrayal, hope, music and culture. In homage to their roots and culture, the album’s title track opens with an exciting cuatro riff that immediately lifts audiences to their feet. The track surges with a deep Latin funk swing, lush harmonies and beat that doesn’t die until the last note. The title track “La Raiz” is one of the best examples of what Radio Mundial is trying to accomplish musically and lyrically,” explains Richard. After the rush from “La Raíz” the song segues into “Cuarto sin Ventanas” a funk/rock tune with a 6/8 beat. The song travels from a rock groove to an exciting African rhythm with the drum holding a backbeat returning to Jean’s smooth vocal delivery. “Tambor,” described by Richard is “a song of never-ending hope,” has the feel of an upbeat cumbia and ends with a songo styled rhythm. The cool beats of “Pura Vida” showcase Radio Mundial’s versatility using Brazilian-house rhythm track which is not only exciting but carries a positive message that, “life is for living. It encourages us to live life to the fullest, ceasing every opportunity and savoring every moment.” “Underneath It All” slows it down and bit and brings together a bit of R&B/soul with jazz harmonies, proving that Mundial can swing the groove as well.With band members John Uman (congas & timbales) Andy Sanesi (drums) Gustavo Amarante (bass) rooted in Puerto Rican, Peruvian, Panamanian, American & Brazilian heritage, Radio Mundial’s rhythmic and sexy music will fill dance floors and bedrooms worldwide.