Presente

Bajofondo’s calling card is a blend of traditional tango music and modern-day rock and electronic sounds. But on its third album in 10 years, the eight-piece band led by noted producers Gustavo Santaolalla and Juan Campodonico lives in the present rather than looking to the past. Indeed, while the accordion-like bandoneón is as synonymous with tango as dancing, Martin Ferres spends much of his time in the background. (An exception is “A Repechaje.”) But for nearly all of the 22 tracks, club beats and grooves are the backbone. Many tracks add a broader panoramic sweep on the wings of a full orchestra, and the overall effect sounds like the opening credits to a movie set in some sexy locale. This isn’t surprising, considering that Santaolalla has won two Oscars for his soundtrack work. Past Bajofondo efforts have also included vocalist guest stars, but this time the group has chosen to stay within its ranks for the occasional lead vocal turn. Highlights here include “Codigo de Barra,” “Pide Piso,” “Circular," and “La Trufa y el Sifon,” the album’s biggest rocker.