South America comes to the Rialto

By Nick Marino | Friday, October 29, 2004, 11:59 PM

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The Putumayo record label, known for its world music primer CDs, has brought its music to life through the Latinas: Women of Latin America tour, which Friday showcased three female vocalists at the Rialto. Two, Belo Velloso and Mariana Montalvo, had never before toured the States. The third, Toto La Momposina, is far from a household name here. So the show acted a bit like Putumayo’s records — it was a joyous and inclusive triple-header designed to spark further exploration.

Velloso (the playful Brazilian) and La Momposina (the feisty Colombian) both delivered their respective goods, drawing proudly from the traditions of their respective homelands. But it was Montalvo’s night. The regal Chilean singer, who has lived for 30 years in exile, sang with a penetrating intensity. She was tough and romantic, her voice coursing with dignity and grace. All three singers communicated ideas across language barriers. More than the others, though, Montalvo channeled human emotions into song and emerged with something devastating.