Various Artists

In this new Putumayo collection, we look at a variety of jazz-inflected, electronically inspired songs that come mostly from Western Europe and are influenced by the many Middle-Eastern and Latin musicians who live there today. One of the first tracks to catch your attention is Toufic Farrouk’s “Destins et Désirs,” a light-jazz tune that combines Jeanne Added’s beautiful vocals with a laid-back, effective arrangement. Jazzamor’s “Nuit Magique,” with its Latin-inspired piano riffs and percussion, is refreshingly Euro-Cuban. And Italy’s Fiamma Fumana goes into a playful mode with “Check In,” the lyrics of which describe creative ways of spending time at the airport. A Brazilian influence can be felt on !DelaDap’s “Le Shin,” which clearly comes from a bossa nova point of view via its almost-whispered vocals, guitar, and subtle percussion. Listen also to Mystic Diversion’s “E Pa-Pa,” a rich lounge tune with clever guitar riffs and Miles Davis-inspired trumpet sounds. Putumayo Presents: Euro Groove succeeds by giving the listener a sample of the current state of European fusion. The music remains fresh even after repeated hearings, and sparks the listener’s curiosity on the artists chosen for the compilation.