The story of how synths reached Cabo Verde is one full of mystery, magic, and — maybe — more than a touch of fantasy. But the legend adds yet another layer of interest to the fascinating synth sounds that emerged from the islands after independence, when local rhythms such as Mornas, Coladeras, and Funaná were transformed by the introduction of synthesizers. In the hands of musicians like Paulino Vieira and his band Voz de Cabo Verde, these new technologies added a trippy, cosmic dimension to the islands’ traditional music, veering between disco, psychedelia, futuristic electronics, and funky electro pop.