The Point (album release), Money Chicha

If my Spotify were “wrapped” today, the Point’s “Leaving” might chart as my most-played song of 2024. It’s a magical, two-chord, tropical soul groove where the Hammond organ of Joe Roddy and electric guitar of Jack Montesinos speak back-and-forth, taking turns blowing their tops, without ever abandoning the highlife riff. Another pre-album single, “Mrs. Kind Eyes,” lands a cupid arrow of dub with bedroom pop sensibilities. Together, they grip intrigue for the young trio’s new record Maldito Animal – crystallizing the raw live sound of 2022 standout Berto’s Banquet. The platter’s producer, Beto Martinez, joins release festivities with his Peruvian-inspired groove unit Money Chicha. – Kevin Curtin