Gustavo Cortiñas – Kind Regards / Saludos Afectuosos (Desafio Candente Records, 2022)
Gustavo Cortiñas is a Mexican-born, Chicago-based drummer and composer rooted in the jazz tradition, with a focus on melody, musical instrument interaction, and the rhythms of his native Mexico.
His album Kind Regards gracefully gives life through music to words that attempt to build bridges and understanding in times of border controversies and ignorance; words that focus on our feet and the dust on which they walk, instead of the stars under which they dream.
Kind Regards (Saludos Afectuosos) is an intimate and captivating recording that examines concepts of societal equity, migration, freedom, affection, and life via a collection of ten self-penned pieces. Singer Meghan Stagl adds an exquisite, soulful essence to the music, singing in Spanish and English. The music is enhanced by Emily Kuhn’s comforting trumpet melodies and Eric Skov’s elegant guitar. Furthermore, Cortiñas’ intricate rhythms offer a vibrant foundation to the album, while each musician in the band deliver outstanding performances and interplay.
Musicians: Meghan Stagl on vocals and piano; Emily Kuhn on trumpet; Erik Skov on guitar; Katie Ernst on upright bass; and Gustavo Cortiñas on drum set.
Nuy Kind Regards
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.