Este Ritmo
Moondo, 2021
8/10
Perhaps best known as a co-founder of the legendary outfit The Gipsy Kings, Diego Baliardo returns here with a new band, The Gypsy Evolution, for a highly textured and energetic debut that stays true to Baliardo’s Romani roots.
“Me Voy A La Playa” starts the listen with Baliardo’s smooth, expressive singing alongside playful percussion from Pacheco Rodolfo as well as skilled guitar work in the rhythmic opening, and this formula continues to the pop-influenced “No Tengo Dinero”, and the acoustic guitar fueled and romantic “Cara Bonita”.
In the middle, “Bambino” dances with bright melodies that benefit from Marlon and Gibson Baliardo’s frisky guitar work, while “Mi Nino” offers a breezy approach of emotive and intoxicating musicianship. The title track, one of the album’s best, then emits a reggae influence amid Antoine Ona’s careful bass work.
Close to the end, “Bonita” has you searching for your dancing shoes as the band’s rhythmic interplay will get your body moving, and “El Loco” exits the listen with a dynamic chemistry between all 5 players as they deliver with precision and playfulness.
An album that’s got plenty of pop flavor while still being indebted to a cultural heritage that embraces Flamenco and Latin ideas, Baliardo and The Gypsy Evolution are certainly off to a fantastic start that hints at the greatness achieved by the Gipsy Kings.
Travels well with: Honey Made- Brand New; Sotomayor- Origenes