Absence makes the heart grow fonder, right? It has been nearly two months since I’ve shown my face around here but in that time I’ve stumbled across some real gems like Pirats Sound Sistema.

Contrary to popular myth I’m not as worldly some might lead you to believe and am no way a polyglot as I have enough difficulty being understood in my native tongue. That said, Pirats Sound Sistema is, to my best guess, from Spain judging by the Spanish imprint and the vocals. Let it be said I am also a lazy detective. Anyway, Pirat’s Sound System Vol. II is a fantastic summer album that slams together the best of Reggae, Hip Hop, Dub, and Dance Hall with the occasional smattering of Ska like the sublime “Lletres de colors”. The album is fresh and fun especially when they mash disparate elements like they do with “Pel teu bé” which opens with a smokey Middle Eastern feel only to quickly be swept up into a backwards leaning Electro/Dance Hall piece that begs you to shake the change loose from your pockets.

Here’s a video to give you a good feel for their sound…

You can also grab a sample of “Tancs” on their label’s website or just grab the album from eMusic. Highly recommended.