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Matador: Matador V

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Matador: Matador V
Uruguayan guitarist, vocalist and composer Matador (Santiago Bogacz), expands his sonic palette on his fifth eponymous solo release. Using only an acoustic guitar Bogacz performs sixteen adventurous originals with his signature dramatic spontaneity. The music on this stimulating album encompasses a wide array of influences that Bogacz deftly melds into a singular, multilayered entity.

For instance the melody on "Bimbrrmtuke" with its hypnotic vamps and soulful vocals is reminiscent of the West African griot tradition. Bogacz's agile guitar channels a thrilling urgency peppered with delightful dissonance. Atonal experimentations are also heard on such tunes as "Zumare." Contemplative at times, percussive and fiery at others, Bogacz's singing adds to the subtle angst that permeates such tunes.

The pieces often seamlessly flow into one another yet they each have their own unique character. "Leberenos Daca" starts off with a western classical feel, yet as Bogacz's falsetto enters it transforms into an otherworldly and memorable flamenco. As a darkly hued serenity permeates the atmosphere, the title changes to "Badje Niare" with resonant tones and an Eastern flavor. Bogacz elegantly utilizes silent pauses and bent notes for a haunting effect on this instrumental interlude.

A rootsier, Americana sound marks the final part of the recording. Latin motifs abound on the virtuosic improvisation that makes up "Nkwa" even though both it and the theme of its preceding track "Gritos en los Cielos" owe much to juke joint blues. The wistful "13 de Febrero" is somber and filled with shimmering chimes, slide guitar phrases and tolling notes. The solemn singing ushers in a spirituality that nevertheless maintains strong folk sentiments.

The intriguing disc comes with a booklet that features artwork made up of the letters of the song names. On this introspective and lyrical, and deep and singular work Bogacz has reached a creative peak.

Track Listing

U Uú Uú Uú; Léberenos dacá; Badjè Niaré; Seres de líneas rectas que se mueven de forma entrecortada; ............... : 2; Bimbrrmtuke; Sali et Alou; Cara derretida; Zumare; ¿Qué es lo que necesitás?; Me acuerdo de mí; 34°90'95.962"S, 56°16'68.686"W; Zinser Nicerser; Gritos en los cielos; Nkwa; 13 de febrero.

Personnel

Matador
guitar, acoustic

Album information

Title: Matador V | Year Released: 2020 | Record Label: Self Produced

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