Two very different but equally enjoyable reissues from the Munster umbrella of labels, both dating to late-60s Peru. First up, Los York’s: a successful, yet short-lived, garage rock band from the Rimac district of Lima. The group issued three LPs on the MAG label, of which this is the second. At the height of their fame, Román Palacios (guitar), Fred Aguilar (drums), Walter Paz (guitar) and Pablo Luna (vocals) became household names, regularly hosting their own radio and television programs. For York’s’ 68, the band were given ample time and resources and the results are certainly slick. The Beatles’ influence is obvious, but not overwhelming. Los York’s’ fuzzy guitars and shuffling rhythms on hit single ‘Abrázame Baby’ are charmingly louche, but even on the slower, cleaner, numbers, such as ‘Charo’, the band stamp their own mark impressively. A snaking, muscular cover of Cream’s ‘Sunshine of Your Love’ (‘La Alegría de Tu Amor’) is a particular highlight. It’s every bit as engrossing as the original. These boys could certainly play, and there’s more than enough depth and variety on offer to hold interest.

Accompanying album, Dejen Bailar al Loco (Let the Crazy Man Dance) is the work of Pablo Villanueva Branda, aka Melcochita, whose vocal support can also be heard on York’s’ 68. Born in La Victoria, Lima, Melcochita is perhaps better known for his comic roles on Peruvian television, but he is a gifted musician, who served for some time as a session player for MAG, featuring on countless numbers. This is an excellent collection of upbeat guarachas showcasing the singer backed by top class orchestras. ‘Los Goles de Pele’, a humorous tribute to the Brazilian footballer, exemplifies the joyous spirit of these recordings. Uplifting music played by talented performers which is sure to leave you smiling.