"The best world music feels fresh, authentic, and uncanned. There's incredible variety, artistry, and soulfulness beyond our borders," said Joe. "My favorite music comes from Brazil, which contains a massive universe of talent and styles."

According to Joe, music and adventure travel have a natural correlation. "For me, music has always been a way to immerse into the local culture. You're out of the tourist bubble when you join in with the locals enjoying their music."

Thanks to the growing number of international music labels, travel is no longer required to develop your own world music palate. The benefits are twofold: a broader world perspective and sometimes, as Joe points out, an improved disposition. "My antidote for a bad day at the office is to crank up a samba or bossa nova album. Instant sunlight."

FLORIA PURIM SINGS MILTON NASCIMENTO

To catch-up on your Portuguese (or at least appreciate what might be one of the world's most expressive languages), check out Joe Robinson's picks from celebrated jazz vocalist Flora Purim's new album.

Track 1: "Maria Tres Filhos"—A classic Nascimento composition, this recording is atmospheric, mystical, and seductive, with Purim showing off all her vocal wiles, from wordless scatting to sultry tale-telling. Hear this song at the official album Web page.

Track 4: "Nuvem Cigana"—This song has a very cool, languid mood and gauzy vibe. Bebel Gilberto fans should feel right at home, though the Brasilectrica terrain here is more mysterious and inventive. Hear this song at the official album Web page.

RUMBA FLAMENCO, VARIOUS ARTISTS

Also recommended by our music aficionado are the flamenco/Afro-Cuban rhythms of rumba flamenco, a style that originates from the Catalan region of Spain.

Track 8: "Tengo Tengo" (Chico and the Gypsies)—I love the energy of flamenco in full aggro mode. This song has it, brimming with manhandled fret boards. Hear this song at the official album Web page.