Based in the Mexican port city of Veracruz, Conjunto Alma Jarocha take an ultra-smooth approach to the fast syncopated rhythms, simple melodies, and imaginative improvisation of the son jarocha tradition of Mexico. Much of the band's unique sound is derived from indigenous instruments including the large, wooden, harp-like arpa jarocha; a four-string guitar, requinto jarocha, that is plucked; and a small, ten-stringed guitar, jarana, that is strummed. Conjunto Alma Jarocha recorded their sole album, Sones Jarochos, under the supervision of Arhoolie owner and producer Chris Strachwitz and recording engineer Dan Sheehy. ~ Craig Harris