From their humble start, file-sharing musical ideas and producing their first album in separate countries during the dawn of the internet, Novalima is now a live musical force revered worldwide for breaking boundaries and uniting seemingly irreconcilable genres, communities, and generations. They have created an inspiring movement and revolutionized the music scene in their native Peru by bridging a longstanding divide between the mainstream and the minority Afro-Peruvian community, who have struggled against discrimination and cultural dissolution for generations.
Over the last two years, Novalima created their newest offering, Planetario to be released June 16th on Wonderwheel Recordings. The album’s name signals Novalima’s musical growth and international connections – much of the album was recorded on tour when they collaborated with top local and international musicians. There is a strong connection to Colombia created through a remarkable recording session in Bogota organized by members of La-33 including Sidestepper vocalist Eka Muñoz, Pernett and La Mamba Negra. The album also has offerings from global artists such as Marc de Clive Lowe (UK/NZ), Panko from Ojos de Brujo (Spain), and Kumar (Cuban rapper based in Barcelona).
The album’s debut single, “Como Yo” (to be released May 19th on digital single and 7” vinyl) honors the legendary Peruvian percussionist and longtime band member Mangue Vasquez who passed away in 2014. Not one for sentimentality, Mangue implored his friends to celebrate his life with song and dance when he passed rather than shed any tears. The life affirming lyrics are underscored by rolling percussion, twinkling synths, and a celebratory sing-song chant chorus: Gozen la vida como yo – Enjoy life, like I do.