500 Years of Night

Hailing from the Chiapas region of Mexico but based in Toronto, Canada, Quique Escamilla might represent a modern version of a pan-American troubadour. His fusing of traditional Mexican musical styles such as ranchera and huapango with rock, reggae and even a touch of rap is done in an unassuming way, built upon solid musicianship. The title of the album refers to the legacy of European colonisation on indigenous cultures and Escamilla's lyrics are clearly political; tackling civil rights, immigration and discrimination, and sung in Spanish and English.

Some have won him comparisons with Manu Chao and Bob Marley but, even though they might share similar themes, musically Escamilla is more of a romantic rocker at heart. Generationally, he's close to Las Cafeteras, the Chicano band from east Los Angeles; he also shares their energy, dark humour and idealism. The guitar-driven 500 Years of Night features strong songwriting and a clear message, while the gritty sound of the production keeps his sound rootsy. A very promising debut recording.