Ozomatli: Latin Hybrid sound out of LA

Perhaps one of the best known Latin hip-hop groups, Ozomatli is certainly one of my favorites. The group formed in Los Angeles, but many of its members hail from all over Latin America, providing a fascinating hybrid sound.

Much like the Orishas, Ozomatli songs are upbeat and fun, combining musical styles from cumbia, rock, salsa, reggae, and middle eastern funk. Their music reflects their own Latin roots and the cultural melting pot of Los Angeles. Their message is often political and a reflection on the life of an immigrant from Latin America, as expressed by the beautiful ballad, Cuando canto.

Their names comes from the Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs, word for the astrological sign of the monkey: the god of dance, harvest, music and fire.