Pipo Romero – Alborada (self-release, 2025)
Spanish guitarist-composer Pipo Romero has released Alborada, his fourth studio album. The record centers on Romero’s elegant, inventive and melodic steel-string acoustic guitar. Pipo’s music has deep Andalusian roots and flamenco references. He skillfully combines these with Atlantic influences and strands of Americana and impressionism.
The opener, “Preludio y Aurora,” pairs distorted synths with flamenco palmas (handlcaps) and bulerías. “Tangos del Atlántico” sets a flamenco framework against punchy ’80s-style kick drums and a brisk, banjo-like guitar solo.
The joyful title track features exquisite violinist Diego Galaz and accordionist Jorge Arribas, while “Bitácora” includes a guest vocal by David Otero.
“Bailando en el Tsunami” takes a personal, introspective, back turn. “Natura” adds Latin percussion and field sounds, including barks from Romero’s dog, Locke.
The set closes with “Por Una Cabeza,” a Gardel/Le Pera Argentine tango classic arranged for solo guitar with a near-orchestral approach.
Romero will present Alborada in Madrid on October 18 at 12:30 p.m. at Sala Galileo Galilei (Calle Galileo 100, 28015). The project has also been selected for leading world music showcases, including WOMEX 2025 in Finland and Folk Alliance International 2026 in New Orleans, with a confirmed stop in New York.
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.