Podcast Summary: All Songs Considered – "Alt.Latino: Xavi, Simon Grossmann, more"

Release Date: August 13, 2025
Host: Ana Maria Ser
Co-Host: Isabela Gomez Sarmiento
NPR's All Songs Considered

Introduction

In this vibrant episode of All Songs Considered, hosts Ana Maria Ser and Isabela Gomez Sarmiento take the reins from Felix Contreras to dive deep into the world of Latin alternative music. Embracing the summer vibe, the duo explores a curated selection of tracks that promise to be the season's soundtrack. Their engaging chemistry sets the stage for an insightful musical journey, blending personal insights with expert analysis.

1. Simon Grossmann – "Copa del Mundo" [01:22]

Isabela Gomez Sarmiento kicks off the discussion with Simon Grossmann’s "Copa del Mundo," highlighting its beach anthem feel and metaphorical use of soccer:

“Simone's raspy, raspy voice is one I turn to all the time. I think it shines its brightest in this kind of low key beach anthem.” [01:22]

Ana Maria appreciates the song’s romantic undertones, referencing Venezuelan cultural nuances:

“In Venezuela, that's what we call la via. In English, you would call it Riz... that's the whole thing.” [03:28]

The hosts admire Grossmann's ability to infuse tropical energy even in chaotic settings, making it a perfect summer opener.

2. Javi Kapo ft. Capo – "Bien Pedos" [04:36]

Ana Maria Ser introduces Javi Kapo’s "Bien Pedos," a dynamic pop banger that showcases Kapo’s impressive vocal range and songwriting prowess:

“Javi has one of the most impressive, dynamic vocals that I hear these days in pop music.” [05:00]

Isabela praises the fusion of Afro beats with traditional música mexicana elements:

“He's a Javi who can really fit into anything... It's really Javi being able to shapeshift into something really, really interesting and distinct for himself.” [07:16]

The track exemplifies contemporary música mexicana with afrobeat influences, positioning Kapo as a versatile artist in the Latin pop scene.

3. Ana Frango Electrico – "Asoa Diversao" [08:38]

Shifting gears to Brazil, Isabela Gomez Sarmiento presents Ana Frango Electrico’s "Asoa Diversao," an indie pop gem rich with bossa nova influences:

“Their voice always catches me off guard because it's so sugary in a way that rises above the production but doesn't dominate the entire song.” [09:10]

Ana Maria delves into the cultural fusion present in the track, appreciating its blend of Brazilian and South American indie sounds:

“There is such a level of influence that's very obviously bossa heavy and bossa based, but there's borrowing from the Argentine indie scene... it sounds extra unique.” [10:38]

The song’s groovy congas and pocket piano create a dreamy, cloud-like listening experience, marking Ana Frango Electrico as a standout in the Brazilian music landscape.

4. Leonpei – "Prenden Un Bleep" & "Madruga" [16:05]

Ana Maria Ser shifts focus to Leonpei's evolving artistry with two singles from her upcoming album. She first discusses "Prenden Un Bleep" featuring DJ Piek:

“The combination of them is absolutely incredible... it's a full, perfect way to open the show for me.” [16:18]

In "Madruga," Ana highlights the song’s Mexico City vibe and production excellence:

“Something about these light horns. It's a little bit 80s... very interesting to hear her adopting the styles of these different producers while defining her own voice.” [17:00]

Isabela admires Leonpei’s versatility and her ability to maintain a consistent artistic identity despite diverse collaborations:

“It shows that versatility and also how a vocalist can adapt themselves to their producer style without losing themselves in it.” [19:24]

5. Marto & Lena Dardelette – "Sverdad" & "Ami De Ti" [20:11]

Isabela Gomez Sarmiento introduces Marto’s "Sverdad," a subdued merengue track that blends electronic elements with traditional rhythms:

“It's like a sexy little after party and a speakeasy... so mesmerizing.” [20:11]

Ana Maria connects the track to broader merengue trends, emphasizing its timeless appeal:

“Merengue never is out of style... Merengue will never die.” [25:19]

To complement, Ana plays Lena Dardelette’s "Ami De Ti," praising its minimalist production and emotional depth:

“You get to the chorus and you almost expect it to go bigger, and then it's really satisfyingly not bigger.” [23:15]

The interplay between Marto and Lena showcases the beauty of restraint in Latin music, allowing vocals and subtle instrumentation to shine.

6. Stevie Jones – "Solo" & "Noe Nasido Rico" [26:05]

Ana Maria Ser closes the episode with Spanish artist Stevie Jones from Catalunya. She first highlights "Solo," noting his captivating pop sensibilities:

“Every single one of his songs has really, like, a captivating quality to me.” [28:09]

Isabela praises the elegant maximalist production and strong lyricism in "Noe Nasido Rico":

“Very maximalist production, but in a really elegant way... the lyricism is really, really strong.” [30:35]

Ana expresses anticipation for Jones’ forthcoming album, underscoring his unique position in the Spanish indie scene:

“I can't wait for the album. I don't know when it's coming or if it's ever coming, but I hope it's coming.” [30:49]

Conclusion

Ana Maria Ser and Isabela Gomez Sarmiento wrap up the episode by celebrating their collaborative exploration of Latin alternative music. Their selections not only highlight emerging talents but also underscore the rich, diverse sounds that define the genre today. From Venezuelan beach anthems to Brazilian indie grooves and Spanish pop innovations, the episode serves as a testament to the vibrant landscape of Latin music.

Notable Quotes:

• Isabela Gomez Sarmiento: “Simon’s raspy, raspy voice is one I turn to all the time. I think it shines its brightest in this kind of low key beach anthem.” [01:22]

• Ana Maria Ser: “Javi has one of the most impressive, dynamic vocals that I hear these days in pop music.” [05:00]

• Ana Maria Ser: “Merengue will never die.” [25:19]

• Ana Maria Ser: “Every single one of his songs has really, like, a captivating quality to me.” [28:09]

This episode of All Songs Considered not only curates a stellar playlist but also offers insightful commentary on the evolving sounds of Latin music, making it a must-listen for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.