Raúl Monsalve y Los Forajidos – Sol (Olindo Records, 2025)
Raúl Monsalve y Los Forajidos return with Sol (sun), a stunning genre-blurring second album that fuses Venezuelan traditions with global influences. Rooted in irresistible Afro-Venezuelan rhythms, the shapeshifting record meshes together Venezuelan spiritual influences, futuristic jazz, psychedelic funk, infectious Afrobeat, and experimental electronics.
Drawing from inspirations like George Clinton’s funk futurism, Herbie Hancock’s Mwandishi period, and the experimental edge of Nyege Nyege Tapes, Sol keeps the listener keeps the listener invested. Notable collaborators include UK producer Emanative, Congolese guitarist Kiala Nzavotunga (formerly of Fela Kuti’s Egypt 80), and Malcolm Catto of the Heliocentrics.
The album centers on themes of rebirth and perseverance, symbolized by the sun as a force of renewal and vitality. This imagery ties closely to the Afro-Venezuelan celebrations of Saint John the Baptist on June 24th, a coastal festival marking resilience and cultural unity. Guest artists such as Carlos Tález and master percussionist Gustavo Ovalles lend authenticity to these deeply rooted traditions.
Raúl Monsalve’s career developed in Caracas, immersed in Afro-Venezuelan and Latin rhythms. He later relocated to his current base in Paris. Collaborating with a diverse network of diaspora musicians, Monsalve continues to explore and reinterpret Venezuela’s rich heritage. His previous album, Bichos (2020), earned international acclaim and expanded the group’s reach, performing at major festivals like Super Sonic Jazz in Amsterdam and Calgary Folk Music Festival.
With Sol, the group has evolved from a fluid studio project into a cohesive, visionary ensemble. Core members include Lya Bonilla (vocals), Edgar Bonilla (keyboards), Andrés Vela (saxophone), and Mario Orsinet (drums). Together, they crafted an album that is both a tribute to Venezuela’s past and a bold step into its musical future.
Buy Sol.
Author: Iliana Cabrera
