La Tierra Canta
Northsound, 2025
8/10
The classical guitarist Patricio Morales uses his Chilean roots alongside classical ideas and jazz melodies for these 9 worldly songs that recruit many players.
The upbeat and rich title track begins with Vitor Goncalves’ playful accordion and Morales’ skilled guitar interacting with much warmth, and “Armando” follows with Rodrigo Recabarren’s frisky drumming that suits the cultured percussion.
Landing in the middle, “Canción Para Despedier A Emilia” is a dreamy moment via the cozy accordion and soft guitar, while “Rural Reflections” benefits much from Kahil Nayton’s well timed cavaquinho and Sebastian De Urquiza’s upright bass prowess.
Arriving close to the end, the meticulous textures of “Realismo Mágico” allows for Rogério Boccato’s Brazilian percussion to illuminate the dynamic album highlight, and “Keep In Touch” exits with a bright demeanor of uplifting and animated gestures.
The tracks here were penned early in Morales’ career and they sure have aged well. The technical delivery ranges from romantic to cautious to busy, and each selection ends entirely too soon.
Travels well with: Arturo O’Farrill- Mundoagua; Livio Almeida- Brasilia Sessions