Raphael Brunn Flamenco Quintet
Puertas Abiertas (independent, 2007)
New York-based guitarist Raphael Brunn plays Flamenco Spanish-style. While many US-based guitarists who claim to play Flamenco usually go for the light rumba pieces, Raphael Brunn plays harder palos (Flamenco styles), such as bulerías and even a taranta. His new CD, Puertas Abiertas (Open Doors) includes virtuoso solo guitar work as well as attention-grabbing ensemble pieces, combining Flamenco with jazz elements.
Brunn spent some time in Spain and as Nuevo Flamenco artists have done in the past, he uses electric bass. Brunn paints Flamenco with new colors by adding intimate jazz trumpet. His ensemble uses palmas (handclap percussion) as well. Accompanying Brunn are Sean Kupisz on bass, Oscar Valero on percussion, Duane Eubanks on trumpet and Mariano Manzella on vocals.
Puertas Abiertas is a refreshing look at Flamenco made in North America.
Get the album from CDBaby.
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.
