Desde Nueva York Vol 4: A Fiesta That’ll Make You Forget Your Name (And Maybe Your Shoes)
If you’re into music that feels like a street party bursting through your speakers, Don Medardo Y Sus Players have got something special for you. Their 2021 album Desde Nueva York Vol 4 is a wild ride through Latin grooves and Urbano Latino vibes, with styles ranging from salsa to cumbia, guaguancó, vallenato, merengue, and porro. It’s the kind of record that makes you wanna grab a plate of empanadas, crank up the volume, and dance until your neighbors complain—or join in.
Gustavo Velasquez handles vocals, and let me tell ya, his voice has this raw charm that just sticks to your soul. The album comes out of Ecuador under the Medarluz label, which explains why it’s dripping with local flavor but still universal enough to make anyone move their hips. Now, I gotta say, there are tracks here that’ll stay stuck in your head longer than last week’s leftovers.
Take “Prefiero A Mi Ecuatoriana,” for example. This banger is like an anthem for national pride wrapped in a salsa beat. Gustavo sings about loving someone who reps Ecuador hard, and honestly? It’s kinda impossible not to feel a little patriotic yourself while listening. The horns hit just right, and the rhythm is so smooth, you’ll start thinking twice about all those times you didn’t call your abuela back. Every time it plays, it reminds me of family barbecues where everyone’s arguing over whose ceviche recipe reigns supreme—but somehow, no one’s mad because the music keeps things chill.
Then there’s “Juana Guaguancó.” Oh man, this track slaps harder than a summer mosquito. Between its infectious guaguancó groove and Gustavo’s raspy delivery, it’s got this hypnotic energy that pulls you in. You can practically picture Juana herself strutting down the block like she owns the place. And honestly? By the end of the song, you might find yourself walking around with the same swagger.
One thing I noticed is how some songs seem to repeat themselves—like “La Murga Panameña” or “Dejala Que Se Vaya”—but instead of being annoying, it feels intentional. Like when your tía insists on telling the same story at every reunion; sure, you’ve heard it before, but it’s part of the vibe now.
The whole album feels alive, messy even, like real life. There’s passion in every note, joy in every beat, and yeah, maybe a couple of rough edges too. But isn’t that what makes it human? By the time you finish listening, you realize it’s less about perfection and more about connection.
So here’s the kicker: If you ever wondered what happens when New York meets Ecuador on a sweaty dance floor, well…this is it. Just don’t blame me if you lose your shoes during the third listen.
