River of Light (Rio de Luz): Music From My Soul, Bolivia
by Oscar Reynolds —
This all-instrumental recording is full of evocative South American/Latin rhythms and melodies enhanced by exceptionally talented ethnic players from Bolivia, Peru, Argentina and Spain who live in the San Francisco Bay area.
Most of the indigenous instruments appearing on this CD should be familiar to fans of global music.
While the music is deceptively smooth and even soothing upon first listen, after a more careful review, one can hear polyphonic rhythms and a lush tapestry of guitar, charango, Andean pipes (antara) and bass.
The overall effect marries South American folk with flamenco, while gorgeous sensual melodies quicken one’s pulse and send the spirit soaring.
www.oscarreynolds.com
Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 24, Number 5, October/November 2005.
March 15, 2016
CDs, Music review, October/November 2005 Issue