By José Gandue @Gandour Archive photo The Spirits
Initial warning from the chronicler of this note: In order to unify languages in the review of this record, I have consulted Wikipedia to find the meaning of the word "Sancocho", so that every reader, whether Latino or not, Understand the reason for using this term to title this sonic marvel made by the Argentinian band The Spirits:
«"Sancocho is a soup made with meats, tubers, vegetables and seasonings, characteristic of the countries belonging to the former Viceroyalty of New Granada (Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador) as well as the Spanish-speaking island countries of the Caribbean (Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico). Among its origins appear to be the Taíno ajiaco, the Spanish cocido, the Spanish olla podrida, and the Corsican, Irish, Danish, German, Italian, and French stews. Sancocho contains essential products, But, in short, anything goes. This makes it one of the most mixed and diverse dishes in Latin America, and it is a clear reflection of what we experience every day on our continent.
Now then, friends, having completed that linguistic exercise to unify criteria, let's talk about a fantastic album, such as... Sancocho Stereo, which has been divided (for the moment) into two chapters, in EP format. We are talking, in total, about nine cuts, Three of them are introductions that are more text-based than musical, lasting only a few seconds, but in their brief duration they manage to draw us into the film. The rest is what will be heard in the other six moments. These will be songs where, in order to achieve the shamanic experience that the band invites us to, any musical action is valid. It will feel as if it's all part of a radio broadcast from any of the popular stations across the country. From there, you'll hear the opening notes of a well-known salsa song, in another segment Colombian jungle percussion, and at other times, Andean strings. In the second chapter, also called The Good Times, they have the participation of Daniel Melingo, A veteran of Argentine music, who collaborates by playing wind instruments, adds even more psychedelic mystery to the tunes. Likewise, we cannot deny that, amidst this varied and unexpected mix, What gives unity to this whole mix is a stable rock 'n' roll mood that contains everything.
Yes, it's rock. Rock made on this side of the world, Amidst the constant travels of this group, which has toured extensively throughout the hemisphere thanks to the success of their previous albums, they have taken the opportunity to absorb (quite literally) the diverse and resonant influences they have encountered along their journey. And they have understood, in the creation of their recent musical pieces, the magic that lies in the process of mixing each ingredient. They've masterfully executed the ritual of uniting and combining each sound to achieve the final flavor, a result that delights and satisfies the listener. This is homegrown rock, admirable for its experimental nature and the good humor with which it was crafted.
In short, we have a collection of wonderful recordings that we recommend the viewer listen to with their biggest smile ready. Take a deep breath, put on your headphones. And alongside these remarkable sounds, there is a stimulating aroma that renews our desire to rock out.