Demonstrating a modern and open-minded approach to flamenco, Rocío Márquez is an artist whose music demands full attention to keep up with all what’s happening – but it’s also just beautiful.

Spain

“Banzai” is a posthoumous album of the rapper Gata Cattana, who died in March 2017 due to a severe allergic reaction. She was just 25 years old, and had just a few years of career behind her.

Pablo García Díaz’s two previous studio albums, “Animal con Parachoques” and “Vigorexia Emocional”, appeared on many best of lists in 2012 and 2015 respectively. His third album has the same dark quality.

A legendary indie rock group from Granada, Los Planetas returned with a new material after seven long years since their previous full-length LP “Una ópera egipcia”.

After two EPs, “Remescles, acoples i melismes” in 2015 and last year’s “Verbena,” the duo of Maria Arnal and Marcel Bagés develop their unique take on folk-song form, creating a captivating debut album.

After two EPs, “Remescles, acoples i melismes” in 2015 and last year’s “Verbena,” the duo of Maria Arnal and Marcel Bagés develop their unique take on folk-song form, creating a captivating debut album.

2017 was a wonderful year for those listeners who like to hear traditional music being transported to the 21st century in an original and respectful way.