A colorful album cover for ’Edna Martinez Presents Pico: Sound System Culture from the Colombian Caribbean’.

Various Artists

Edna Martinez Presents Picó: Sound System Culture From The Colombian Caribbean

Format: Vinyl
Label: Strut
Genre: African
EAN: 4062548079524
Regular price €43,90

This groundbreaking compilation opens a window into one of Latin America's most vibrant yet underexplored musical scenes. Curated by Edna Martinez, "Picó" documents the explosive sound system culture that has thrived along Colombia's Caribbean coast for decades, where massive mobile discos called "picós" have shaped entire communities through their earth-shaking sonic power.

The collection captures the raw energy of Cartagena, Barranquilla, and smaller coastal towns where these towering speaker systems - some reaching 20 feet high - blast champeta, salsa, merengue, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms into the tropical night. These aren't just parties; they're cultural institutions where DJs become local legends and sound systems develop devoted followings across neighborhoods and generations.

The tracks showcase the distinctive "picó sound" - heavily processed, bass-heavy mixes that push standard audio equipment to its limits. Familiar salsa classics are transformed through extreme EQ manipulation and echo effects, creating something entirely new. The compilation features legendary systems like El Conde, Sabor Estéreo, and others, each with their signature sonic fingerprint.

This is essential listening for anyone interested in global bass culture, Caribbean music, or the intersection of technology and community. It's a rare glimpse into a scene where sound truly shapes social life.