Review by James Hancox

Cumbia Universal is an album by Wilson Choperena that is sure to delight fans of traditional Colombian cumbia music. The album features a collection of classic cumbia tunes that have been updated with modern production techniques, resulting in a fresh and exciting sound that will appeal to both old-school and new-school cumbia fans alike.

The album's opening track, "La Cumbia del Amor," sets the tone for the rest of the album with its infectious rhythm and catchy melody. Other standout tracks include "El Pescador," "La Cumbia del Sol," and "La Cumbia de la Paz," all of which showcase Choperena's skillful accordion playing and his ability to infuse traditional cumbia with a contemporary twist.

One of the strengths of Cumbia Universal is its ability to seamlessly blend different styles and influences. There are moments where the music takes on a more salsa-inspired sound, while other tracks incorporate elements of reggae, jazz, and even hip-hop. Despite these varied influences, the album never loses sight of its cumbia roots, and Choperena's accordion remains the driving force behind each track.

Summary by James Hancox

Cumbia Universal is a must-listen for anyone who loves cumbia music. Wilson Choperena has crafted an album that pays tribute to the genre's rich history while also pushing it forward into new and exciting territory. Whether you're a die-hard cumbia fan or just looking for some upbeat and infectious music to brighten up your day, this album is definitely worth checking out.