Beatriz Aguiar – Enrique Firpi – Leon Mennen – Ultramar (2023)
“Ultramar,” the latest offering from captivating singer-songwriter Beatriz Aguiar, establishes a compelling connection between her fascination for contemporary Latin American music and her ancestral roots.
The focal point of her artistic endeavors lies in the Mediterranean and Northern Spain, regions that witnessed a significant influx of immigrants to Latin America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Consequently, “Ultramar” skillfully presents an assortment of influences and instruments originating from Spain (specifically Galicia), Portugal, Italy, and Sicily. Notably, the album incorporates Galician “seashells” in its percussion section; a Portuguese drum known as the “adufe”; and boasts the presence of renowned Italian musician Riccardo Tesi, who embellishes the tracks with his virtuoso performance on the “organetto” (diatonic button accordion).
A majority of the musical compositions and all the lyrics featured on “Ultramar” have been expertly penned by Aguiar herself. Her narratives revolve around the lives of migrants, exploring themes such as the vastness of the sea; the familiarity of the land; the transformative journey; the yearning for what was left behind; and the arduous process of starting anew in an unfamiliar place. Certainly, it is a thematic thread that consistently weaves through her body of work.
Adding to the richness of the album, four pieces have been contributed by guitarist Leon Mennen, who also takes credit for the majority of the arrangements. The ensemble’s rhythmic elements are masterfully handled by Uruguayan percussionist Enrique Firpi.
The success of this project can be attributed to the harmonious interplay and compositional synergy displayed by these three accomplished musicians.
Beatriz Aguiar, originally hailing from Uruguay, has earned significant acclaim as a Latin singer and songwriter over the past few decades. In her early career, Aguiar gained recognition as a guest vocalist, collaborating with groups and bands such as the widely celebrated Trasnoche Tango Quintet and the Rumbatá Big Band. Since the turn of the millennium, she has embarked on a more ambitious path, diligently pursuing her solo ventures and forming her own musical entity, the Beatriz Aguiar Band. Notably, Aguiar’s ensembles consistently boast the participation of exceptionally skilled instrumentalists, further solidifying her reputation as one of the most outstanding vocalists within the Latin music landscape in the Netherlands.
Her previous releases, including “Mi Canción” (2006, Connecting Cultures, The Netherlands) and “Nomade” (2012, Felmay, Italy), have garnered critical acclaim. These albums feature collaborations with a distinguished array of musicians, such as Randal Corsen, Ramón Valle, Leonardo Amuedo, Juan Pablo Dobal, Jaime Rodríguez, José Lopretti, Enrique Firpi, Filippo Gambetta, and Riccardo Tesi. Aguiar has extensively toured both in the Netherlands and abroad, presenting her exceptional artistry to audiences worldwide.
The accomplished guitarist Leon Mennen, known for his virtuosity and captivating sound, prominently contributes to the album. Notably, Mennen serves as a professor at the renowned Prins Claus Conservatory in Groningen, the Netherlands. Throughout his career, Mennen has been an integral part of innumerable music and theater projects in both Holland and Europe, continually showcasing his exceptional talent.
Enrique Firpi, the gifted percussionist from Montevideo, Uruguay, adds his versatility and creative flair to the album. Firpi has collaborated with artists such as Ramón Valle, Ivan Lins, and Sergio Mendes, establishing himself as a virtuoso drummer and percussionist within the music industry.
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.