Cubafonia
Self-Released, 2017
8/10
Daymé Arocena returns with a sophomore album here, where her craft is rooted in compositions in Cuba’s classical rhythms and executed with an incredible attention to detail that’s as varied as it is exciting.
“Eluggua” starts the listen with impressive plucked bass as upbeat and adventurous percussion and horns enter the richly layered setting, and “La Rumba Me Llamo Yo” follows with piano, cultured percussion, and, most importantly, Arocena’s diverse and soaring pipes.
Near the middle, “Negra Caridad” flows with soothing yet frisky horns as a festive spirit unfolds with much emphasis on rhythm, while “Cómo” lands closer to piano balladry where Arocena offers expressive vocals as the landscape brings a very soulful aspect. “Todo Por Amor”, one of the album’s best, then shines with a reflective, romantic approach as much beauty punctuates the stirring climate.
Deeper yet, “It’s Not Gonna Be Forever” recruits a dynamic, versatile approach that’s dance friendly, and “Valentine” exits the listen with a vocally busy and musically eclectic display of melody and grooves.
Although she sings mostly in Spanish, there’s also bits of English and French, too, as Arocena easily proves why she’s worthy of the Juno Award she won in 2015, and with exceptional efforts like this, it’s likely she’ll see much more well deserved praise.
Travels well with: Eddie Palmieri- Mi Luz Mayor; Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah- Axiom