PUSI (HICHHANIGUA HIKJATATA)

It might not be unfair to state that WARA was the Bolivian LOS JAIVAS, though their atypical debut is much heavier and less folk oriented than anything by those Chilean pioneers, and it doesn't appear they ever dared be as adventurous as the iconic "Alturas de Macchu Picchu". Their use of traditional Andean instruments does seem to eclipse that of their proposed role models, and, not surprisingly, their mid 1970s albums are probably the ones that lean in closest for a prog folk kiss, albeit a chaste one. This is not to imply that they went new wave in the 1980s, and, from a sampling of all that is readily streamable, I think I might enjoy "Pusi" the most.

At times the elasticity of the lengthier and more ambitious pieces of the earlier albums was tested and found a bit lacking, as enjoyable as they were, but here the shorter track lengths retain an appealing blend of intricacy and accessibility. I admit that the vocal styles, rhythms and song structures seem more mollified for these Anglo/North American raised ears, and that might be seen as a flaw. But honestly, it would be hard to find fault with the lovely and uplifting instrumental "Encuentros", the charango propelled "Indio Joven", and the electro acoustic "Siento" with its subtle sparkly keyboards. And if you really crave the earlier days, you always have the live version of "Fiesta Aymara" to tie an 11 minute ribbon around this gift.

It's fascinating to consider that "Alturas" was a contemporary of this release, LOS JAIVAS propelling themselves above and beyond the converging walls of drum machines and synthetic keyboards at such a late date and WARA buying themselves more time by simply pushing back ever so gently. A different path yes, but, based on their longevity, equally successful.