The compilation showcases how LA became a nerve center of contemporary Mexican Cumbia with Discos Barba Azul as an important node connecting Mexico and United States. Dutty Artz member Xandão curated the album, thinking through how saludos–dedications and shout-outs which sonidero DJs dramatically read–connect families separated by borders. Fans speak to their absent loved ones through the DJ’s voice, which they buy on recordings of the show to send to their family mentioned. Cumbia sonidera–densely layered and personalized–creates an auditory archive of feelings of longing, love, and homesickness.

A collaboration between Dutty Artz and Songs From Home, the compilation features Chucho Ponce Los Daddys de Chinantla, Grupo Kual?, Grupo Ju-Juy, Jorge Meza, Grupo Colmillo, Los Star Boys, Estrellas de la Cumbia, Tinta Roja, Mega Cumbia, and DJ Neo.

Read more information in this wonderful feature in the New York Times and in interviews with the compilation's creators on The Fader. Buy the compilation at any of your favorite digital stores or on vinyl or tape via Dutty Artz.