Nightingales may sing in Berkeley Square, but Marta Gómez sings in Harvard Square

And she's much better than any bird.

Serendipity reigned this May as I walked to an appointment in Harvard Square. A tiny woman in a hot pink shirt was singing gorgeous Latin music, backed by an acoustic guitarist and a drummer. I prayed they'd be there when I got back, and not only were they, they had a CD for sale!

Marta Gómez is from Colombia and sings like an angel in many different styles, from Cuban son to Colombian bambuco. I particularly like song #5, "El Hormigueo," an energetic, catchy song even if you don't speak Spanish. You can contact her via email, or her website for purchasing information. The CD was $15 — for Boston locals, go down to Harvard Square and listen/buy in person...but soon you'll be able to purchase it online.

Keep an eye on Marta - she's my (South) American Idol. Someone give her a recording contract!

(Parts of this review originally appeared on Listen Up!)