íJoan Soriano – Me decidi (iASO Records iASCD13, 2015)
Joan Soriano, the master of roots bachata, delivers another superb album that combines tradition with modernity. Me decidi showcases Joan Soriano’s talent on guitar and lead vocals, along additional vocalists and a rhythm section with distinctively Dominican flavor.
The style remains rooted in captivating bachata, although Joan Soriano is also appealing to a wider audience by incorporating bolero, nueva trova, romantic pop elements and even unexpected doowop.
Most of the lyrics on the album are about love, passion, and disaffection, although Joan Soriano also sings about important social issues, as in the song “El SIDA” (AIDS).
The lineup on Me decidi includes Joan Soriano on lead guitar, lead vocals and chorus; his sister Griselda Soriano on lead vocals and chorus; André Veloz on lead vocals; Joan’s brother, Fernando Soriano on rhythm guitar, lead vocals and chorus; and Robert Feliz on chorus.
Me decidi was recorded in two sessions. The New York band includes Julián Pacheco on bass; Raúl Bier on bongo, cowbell; and Livander Feliz on güira (Dominican scraper).
The other session took place in Santo Domingo and features Mariano Ferreira on rhythm guitar; José Jaques on bass; José Francisco Dias on bongo; and Rhadamés Reyes on güira.
Buy Me decidi
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.