Son de la Frontera - Cal

The title of the CD refers to a type of limestone whitewash/mortar that is repeatedly applied onto Spanish homes and other edifices, by brush or trowel, over many decades. Eventually, a creamy patina is built up that not only catches and purifies the light but actually fortifies the structures it adheres to. The metaphor is a particularly apt one, as Son de la Frontera is constantly re-imagining its richly multi-cultural milieu while never failing to honor the palimpsest-like layers of Flamenco tradition that came before. Still guided by the legacy of the great Diego Amaya Flores del Gastor, the group’s trans-continental assembly of strummed strings can shift from dreamy introspection into paroxysms of fire-eating passion within a heartbeat. Intoxicating melodies and rhythmic cycles of staggering complexity unfold like epic tales from the legendary past. This time out, vocals are more prominent in the mix and, along with a bouquet of rarely-heard antique styles like the malagueña, taranto and sevillana, the set list also contains some original tunes composed by band members. From the opening frenzy of thundering heels and handclaps, the album is a never-to-be-exhausted treasure trove, a musical adventure during which each delighted epiphany is a prelude to the next.