One of the most difficult tasks for a Music Designer is being aware of where music is heading. It is not only about acquiring the material, but also understanding and defining the trends and styles that are relevant to people. That is why we always have our radar on. Additionally, it is crucial to be at the hot spots where the musicians and people of the industry gather. That is why music conferences are more vital than ever, comparable to blogs, charts and magazines.

Having said that, the Latin Alternative Music Conference (that this year celebrates its 14^th edition) is the only conference in its kind that provides safe ground for Latin musicians that have moved away from mainstream into the not so safe terrain of “Alternative.”

Among all the wonderful acts I saw live my favorites where:

Carla Morrison, from Mexico. Her songs are soft and romantic, making her a favorite for Mexican young adults.

From Chile, the electro-pop band Astro demonstrated how they have evolve their sound to a more global and trendy style that can fit perfect  in every style oriented to a young demographics.

Proof of the indie-renaissance in Latin America is the music of the Colombian singer and composer Esteman. His lyrics are simple, ranging from the naïve “No te metas en mi Facebook (Don’t go into my Facebook)” to the great “Aquí estoy yo” featuring with Andrea Echeverry (from Aterciopelados), to the new single “De otro Planeta.”

– Submitted by Juan Pablo Restretpo, Music Design