Song of the Day: Grupo Fantasma - El Consejo

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Each and every Friday we deliver songs by local artists. Today’s selection is “El Consejo” from Grupo Fantasma from the 2010 album El Existential on Nat Geo Music.

For fans of cumbia and Latin-infused music, Grupo Fantasma is a group you should pay attention to -- that is, if you haven’t been paying attention already. Considering the band has been around for at least ten years and has received tons of accolades, including a Grammy nomination for 2008′s Sonidos Gold for Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album, you’ve probably already been a fan for a long time. Considering their deep Latin influences, you may think the band is Colombia or Panama, when in actuality they are from good old Austin, Texas. We also use the word “band” loosely, as “Latin orchestra” is much more accurate considering there are at least 11 performing members in the group. Over the last decade, the band has been featured on NPR, Austin City Limits, and topped CMJ music charts. Their horn section is quite famous as well, touring with great bands like Prince and Spoon. In 2008, the band even performed on two ten-day engagements in Kuwait and Iraq to entertain troops stationed there. You can read more about that experience and about the band in general on their website and listen to additional tracks on their MySpace page.

Grupo Fantasma is currently on tour throughout the Summer. On June 19th, they are scheduled to play the World Music Festival at the Mountain View Plaza at Snoqualmie Casino, an event supported by KEXP and featuring performances by afrobeat drummer Tony Allen, Groupo Fantasma, Occidental Brothers Dance Band International, Quetzal, special guest Laura Rebolloso and sets by KEXP DJs. Don’t miss it!

Until then, check out this mini-documentary of the making of El Existential: