Tropic Culture began in 2007 as an idea spearheaded by brothers Jorge and Alberto Espinosa. Over the past two years it has evolved into a tight, politically-conscious Latin act comprised by as many as nine people at any given time.

Now you’d never believe Tropic Culture was a band from North Carolina. You may say to yourself, “This is island music! This is colorful, exciting, danceable Latin music that can’t possibly have been inspired without innumerable palm trees present!” But, believe it. Tropic Culture brings, well, tropic culture to the mainland.

Tropic Culture’s members bring Puerto Rican, Mexican, Venezuelan and other backgrounds into the mix, which sheds  light on their sound. Also richly diverse is their instrumentation: plenty of Latin percussion and electric bass supports solid horn and string sections including multiple guitars. Energetic male and female vocals add the finishing touches on this colorful portrait.

The band refers to their own work as “feel good” music and easy to tell why. On top of the upbeat music, their lyrics boast social awareness and encourage positive thinking and action. Listen to “Freedom Fighters” or “Eliminate the Hate” and you’ll hear what we’re talking about.

Hit the tropics with the playlist below, and stop by Tropic Culture’s MySpace page for upcoming shows!