Chicago-based band Allá (Spanish for “over there”) has been in the works for years, but this year the world finally got a taste of their music via Es Tiempo (“It is time”). The trio consists of two brothers, Ángel and Jorge Ledezma, and a vocalist, Lupe Martinez. The band is a sign of something that’s on the verge of becoming big- Spanish-language indie made in the U.S.A. Mexico has long had a strong rock scene, and with millions of Spanish speakers living here in the U.S., it seems like seeing an album like this shouldn’t be a suprise, and maybe in a few years it won’t be anymore. In any case, I have another band to add to my playlist for the Spanish class I’ll be teaching this coming semester.
And the music? Lupe Martinez’s vocals are so ethereal and layered that I imagine anyone could enjoy them without understanding Spanish. And if you can understand, the lyrics aren’t really the point- the beautiful sounds are. Here the vocals are key part of the overall sound, and the instrumentation is just as dreamy with strings, keys, and guitars blending is flowing soundscapes. Like a Mexican Yo La Tengo or Stereolab, the music is accessible and soothing but still very full and interesting, a sea of sounds and melodies that mix a touch of Latin sound with folk and mellow electronica. For forty minutes, Es Tiempo floats and shimmers, making you forget about your cares. If you like the tracks I’ve posted, rest assured you’ll like the whole album. Enjoy!
MP3: Allá: “Una día otra noche”
MP3: Allá: “No duermas más”
Entries (RSS)