Tucson-Habana Wrasse ****

For 10 years Amparo Sánchez was the sassy Spanish frontwoman of Amparanoia, peddling an exhilarating blend of ska, latin and rock’n’roll, somewhat akin to Manu Chao. Internationalist in outlook and socially aware, she exuded spirit and passion.

Those qualities are still present, but in a more contemplative form, on her solo venture, where she is accompanied by members of Calexico. Recorded in Arizona and Havana, Amparo marries brooding desertscape to modern bolero with plenty of pop sensibility, and even invites Buena Vista’s Omara Portuondo to duet. The voice is impassioned as ever, and the Spanish lyrics (translation provided) are deeply emotional and searching. There are flashes of exuberance, but this is largely downbeat and soulful. Mature and classy. See amparosanchez.info

Download tracks: Aqui Estoy, Corazon de la Realidad, Quisiera pero