MOTIVOS PARA PERDERSE

This is another one of those neglected jewels in a too large collection that deserves recognition and gets only silence. It took a little nudge from my friend sinkadotentree to get this into my player and seek penance for my misdeed. Muchas gracias, John! While technically a solo album from senor Fernandez-Ledesma, the invitees behave as if in a group setting whilst creating a rich tapestry of sultry sounds and invigorating music.

The multi-instrumentalist leader infuses a vast array of settings and moods into mostly voiceless romps, where his omnipresent keyboards conduct the train, occasionally freeing up a ramp for some sinewy flute pastorals such as on the precious "El Acueducto", a thrilling and fresh opener. The second track gets a tad more explorative but still in breezy style. "Ottla" is a fine track, serene acoustic guitar and whistling synths are a superlative setting in general but here is elevated to a restrained effusion of class, teased by a complex but discreet guitar lead and some cool contrasts. A series of mini 2 to 3 minute segments kick in, weaving almost Saharan winds on moment and smoky electronics the next, the case in point being the mesmerizing "El Espiral" , a magnificent sonic opium with vocals from legendary Mexican female vocalist Alquimia . "El Arbol de Indigo" is the 10 minute whopper , a serene pastoral locale set in musical form where bubbling electronics, tangly guitar webs and some inspired vibraphone work really sling this one forward. A long synthesizer solo only contributes to the sheer glee. Toss in some funky bass and you can see the hot sun scorching through the haze. Entrance stage left, lead guitar outburst that energizes the proceedings even more, turning calm into excited turbulence. Then, a little refreshing ambient pause before reigniting the flame. Very cool track, in so many ways. "La Huida" slowly appears out of nowhere, a sweeping organ ditty, playful recorder work spicing things up, very near canterbury territory but with a slight latino tinge on the lead guitar, sounding almost like a soundtrack to bullfight (Corrida!), with wild swerves and escapes. "Relatos del Agua" has a distinctive marine feel, oceanic in scope with huge wisps of electronica that would make the trancers red with envy, perhaps my favorite track here. Blue effects color the mellotron tides and assorted percussives shaking in the vortex, this is simply brilliant stuff when the Frippian guitar rattles through the haze! Wow! Or should I say 'Caramba'! The title track tucks this puppy in, a near 9 minute joyride that reinvites Alquimia to the mike in a quirky arrangement that is loaded with dissonance, experimentation, counterpoint and creativity. Mucho progressivo! A definite surprise. I will start searching for more! Thanks John for sending me copy that i already had!

4 tequilas