Y La Bamba

Y La Bamba's sophomore album Lupon is superlative for the enchanting October vibe. It is captivating, magical, at times eerie, haunting, and most other adjectives that are dead ringers for inducing the energy of autumn.Lupon's mystic aura was no doubt cultivated during frontwoman Luz Elena Mendoza's childhood -- the daughter of Mexican immigrants, Mendoza grew up in California's San Joaquin Valley listening to Mexican folks songs. Mendoza now resides in Portland, OR with other Bamba bandmates whose recently released album (even though it was recorded two years ago) plays like a love song to the supernatural.The album, produced by The Decemerists' Chris Funk, evokes the kind of energy you'd imagine would stir when running (flying) through a forest"¦ or playing a Ouija board. The first song, "Monster," is a bit dull and errs on odd, but Lupon picks up with "November" and "Soy Captain." Both are velvety and ethereal, with soft melodies and Mendoza's angelic voice in reign. The album carries on as such and then we arrive at "Juniper," which is (for lack of a more original word) beautiful.Lupon features four songs from Y La Bamba's debut album Alida St. "“ "Fasting in San Francisco," "Isla De Hierva Buena," "Festival of Panic" and "Winter's Skin" "“ reworked to remain consistent with Lupon's sound.Press play - your next séance will thank you.