Villalobos Brothers, Somos Review
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Redefining contemporary Mexican music is The Villalobos Brothers. The three brothers, Luis Villalobos (violin, vocals, compositions) Alberto Villalobos (violin, vocals, compositions), and Ernesto Villalobos (violin, vocals, compositions), are creating original compositions that blend elements of jazz, rock and classical with Mexican folk music. The music is combined with lyrics that deliver a powerful message of love, brotherhood and social justice. The group’s virtuosic performances have enchanted listeners from Latin America, India and Russia to Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall and the Latin Grammy Awards. Their work has been recognized by numerous awards including the Vox Populi Award by the Independent Music Awards and the Ultimate Winners in WNYC’s 2013 Battle of the Boroughs. The Villalobos Brothers have collaborated with legendary musicians including Grammy winners Arturo O’Farrill, Antonio Sánchez, Eduardo Magallanes, Dan Zanes, and many others. The Villa Lobos Brothers are now teaming up with Humberto Flores (guitar, artistic director), Rosa Ávila (drums) and Leo Sherman (bass) to present a thirteen-track album titled, Somos.
Positives:
A nice variety of feels. The virtuosity of the performers is very exciting.
Bottom Line:
Taking Mexican folk music to the next level with a heavy dose of jazz, rock and classical is The Villalobos Brothers with their new album, Somos. “Xalapa Bang” is an up-tempo selection with excellent playing. The violin solos are entertaining, and the piano solo was amazing. The track brings the elements of jazz and Mexican folk music together in a very enjoy manner. The brothers appeared on this song on the Arturo O’Farrill, The Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra album, Fandango at the Wall: A Soundtrack for the United States, Mexico and Beyond. “Destino” sounds more closely to the brother’s Mexican folk roots. The group sounds best when all the brothers are singing together, and each plays the violin with passion and control. The guitar playing of Flores is supportive and relaxing. “La Leva” also sounds of their roots and contains excellent three-part violin playing that is virtuosic and well-written and executed. Overall, the album offers a collection of interesting sounds that is grounded in the Mexican folk music with violin playing that is outstanding. The brothers sound best when singing together, but there is some moments where the falsetto singing is impressive too. Celebrate with the Villalobos Brothers in the rich sounds of Somos, it will certainly get the siesta started. That’s the short of it!