When I started putting ideas to paper for a new album, I could not stop thinking about the history of Latin American music, its roots, geographic background, rhythms and styles from the very rich and diverse corners of the continent. Not forgetting the arrival of Spain and Portugal in the 16th century as they begun hundreds of years of colonisation. The Europeans encountered great music that existed already with the indigenous people like Mayas, Inca, Aymara - just to mention a few. These consisted of wind instruments and drums, followed by the arrival of such elements such as francophone and many others, which enriched the flavours of the Caribbean and some parts of the Latin American Continent. Probably the most important element of this puzzle was the arrival of the African slaves, bringing with them their traditions and sounds. It has been said that it is the most significant influence in the Latin American musical history. The cultural mix and cultural backgrounds, social environments and struggles has made this genre one of the world’s best. I have included four short pieces to express some of the influences of the old and modern music that we get to hear today - salsa, merengue, samba, bachata, reggaeton, and latin fusion. by Eduardo Diaz