KCRW’s Global Beat is a series highlighting emerging artists from around the world. Our second season takes us to Mexico, hosted by KCRW DJ Raul Campos alongside our curators, Mexico City DJ and music supervisor Junf, director of Festival NRMAL Moni Saldaña, and NPR’s Betto Arcos.

¡Felices fiestas! In today’s final Global Beat episode of 2022, NPR’s Betto Arcos gives us the gift of holiday-inspired bangers, straight from Mexico’s emerging alternative scene. Folk and jazz sounds from around the world are reimagined and delivered with passion and punch. There may even be a sing-along or two…

Amir Moreno & Panamerican Strings, Karina Galicia – “Tlali Nantli (Madre Tierra)”

Toluca-born percussionist Amir Moreno brings together musicians from different traditions in Xalapa, Veracruz to infuse the region’s robust Son Jarocho sound with a jazzier aesthetic. Careful, pattering drums and dancing keys are the stars of the show, but the lavish instrumentation of the track as a will transports you to the liveliest jazz club under the stars. 

Chalanes del Amor – “Libertad”

Mexican artist Mariel Henry Rojo, and her Chilean husband Diego Corvalán come together to honor a mentor by crafting music inspired by the environments of Brazil and Veracruz. “Libertad” is dreamy and full, with the lovers melding together soft guitars, clicking tongues, and clapping hands for a richly layered and transfixing soundscape. 

Arturo O’Farrill, Conga Patria Son Jarocho Collective – “Conga Patria”

Son Jarocho musicians re-imagine the classic song “Conga Patria” as a big band number, morphing the traditional Cuban conga into Mexican jazz. Irresistibly energetic, “Conga Patria” will have you reaching for your dancing shoes, and immediately adding it to all of your holiday party playlists.