Musica latina

I've been craving Latin American music lately - getting back to my roots, I guess. I have only just started researching but so far, I love Shakira's* second Spanish album, Carlos Vives*, and a few titles from the Putumayo series: I love the "Colombia" collection (my maternal country of origin!), "Women of latin America" (awesome) and "Latin Lounge" (very groovy).
*both Colombian artists as well

Having been raised in English Canadian society, I've never really been very much in touch with my latin roots - too concerned with trying to fit into anglo culture (during my adolescence, anyway). Listening to some of these recordings, though has really affected me - like messages from home, or something...

Anyway, not to sound too heavy, I'm just definitely going to check out some more latin music. Putumayo has some great brazilian and afro-cuban stuff that looks wonderful. And, in the spirit of going back to one's roots, I'd also like to check out Italian Café. Not to offend any of my fellow Italians out there, but so far the Italian music that I have been exposed to (aside from renaissance and baroque music) has been a total cheese fest. I'd like to find some that is more organic-sounding (ie. no syrupy ballads, or macho anthems). Any suggestions?

Peace
j