By José Gandue @spinning zone
Photos from the Juan Campodónico archive
The art of moving without noise
First: the Uruguayan artist Juan Campodónico He knows how to create moving musical material. This Montevideo native, a member, creator, and founder of such prominent Latin American musical projects as Bajofondo, Campo, and Peyote Asesino, has released an album with the ironic title of None of this is me either. And, throughout its eleven tunes, it has expressed, in my view, an almost perfect description of a feeling that I respect and envy: tenderness.
Tenderness and eclecticism in just the right measure
Campodónico, a seemingly unassuming man, of a certain age that suggests maturity, and with a sensitivity and intelligence that few contemporary artists display so effectively, has crafted a tremendously eclectic record, fueled by a sonic apothecary that blends elements of hip hop, Southern Cone folk music, hints of rock, and other influences, all united by appealing electronic elements. These eleven tracks, each under 40 minutes long, avoid falling into any cliché of the genres they draw upon and, rather, through the risk of their fusion, achieve their own unique language, their own message. None of this is me either. It reflects (I guess) a tranquility of production that allows time to discover and recreate sensations that others, who are confused by fame, do not dare to assume.
Songs that heal the heart
I might sound exaggerated, given how much I love this album, but I dare say Campodónico focused more on crafting songs that would gradually win over the audience than on chasing fleeting hits. And mind you, I'm talking about tunes that, in a fairer and less corrupt music world, could be played on any radio station in the world and reach massive audiences, if given the chance to hear them. Milo, initial cut made with Eli Almic, Frik, with the collaboration of Josean Log and, especially, The Distance, performed alongside her compatriot Zeballos, are undeniable masterpieces, which, because of their exposed heart, can be understood and adopted by anyone who listens carefully.
A magician who appears when we need him most.
Without going into too much detail—since it's better to put on your headphones and confirm what I'm saying (or what you freely suspect)—I invite you to listen None of this is me either. embracing a necessary joy in listening. It's clear that Juan Campodónico is a magician who sometimes gets lost in the landscape, but when he makes himself heard, he knows how to envelop us with sensitive brilliance.