El Nino Machuca,
Buscando tu Sur
(Ozella, 2013)


"Buscando tu Sur (Searching Your South)" marks the solo debut of jazz guitarist Paco "El Nino" Machuca.

Though the focus is jazz, the roots of Machuca's musical heritage are evident in his fluid style and vision. His interest in the instrument began with a chance discovery of a flamenco guitar in a closet during a childhood visit to relatives in Seville.

Noting his attraction to this traditional Spanish music, his grandfather honed his interest by introducing him to flamenco singing. Later, his brother Ramon added pop and rock to his fledging musical education.

In 1988 he was among the founders of the Andalusian pop-rock band "No me pises que llevo chanclas." Though the band continues to be popular in Spain and across Europe with new members, Machuca left as his interest in jazz continued to grow.

The 14 tracks on this CD are a mix of eight original compositions, including the title track, and songs by other well-known musicians. Merging jazz rhythms with bulerias and tangos, the album offers warm and inviting sound for a pleasant listening experience.

Providing backup for his vision are Neil Doyle, bass and flugelhorn; Pablo Nunez, cajon and claps; Javi Ceballos, Spanish guitar; Raul Regeteiro and Fran Cortez, jaleos and claps.




Rambles.NET
music review by
John Lindermuth


22 March 2014


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