| Latino |
For Europeans like myself, Dominican Republic music is not something we are accustomed to. At best, we may have encountered it in a few TV series from the ’70s or ’80s, or in films. The first thing that stands out, of course, is the rhythm and the striking use of brass. And while the vocals might give the impression of a pop album, it is essential to focus on the music and the meticulous arrangements of this work, which is far from a second-rate production. It took me multiple listens to fully immerse myself in this album, but in the end, I found it to be an absolute treasure, whether in its guitar work, brass arrangements, or overall composition, it is nothing short of impressive.
A pop-fusion album leaning heavily towards jazz, it can be utterly disorienting for the uninitiated, yet it is, in truth, a marvel. Pavel Núñez, born in Santo Domingo on March 2, 1979, was embraced by the Ciudad Colonial, where he grew up like a child of its historic streets. From an early age, he began to capture his surroundings through song. His gift for storytelling quickly won over a loyal audience, who would gather week after week at his favored haunt, the renowned Casa de Teatro.
Naturally, a career such as his is not built overnight. Years of dedication, exploration, and encounters have shaped his path, as he shared the stage with the greats of the Latin music scene: Juan Luis Guerra, Fito Páez, Diego Torres, Pablo Milanés, Carlos Varela, Luis Días, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Kany García, Franco De Vita, Ricardo Montaner, Milly Quezada, Danny Rivera, Alejandro Sanz, Sting, Pedro Guerra, and many others. With twelve albums, numerous prestigious awards, and countless concerts to his name, he delivers an album as powerful as some of the finest works of the Italian artist Pino Daniele, imbued with the same awareness of the stage. Indeed, this record is clearly the calling card for his upcoming performances.
Yet, the music here is far more intricate than Pino Daniele’s. It carries an entire cultural essence that one must learn to grasp, one distinctly different from Mexican or Argentine music, for instance. There is a unique identity in the way the melodies are written and carried forward. Perhaps this album serves as one of the best gateways into the musical landscape of the Dominican Republic. My own research led me to discover a wealth of significant artists, some even more complex than Pavel Núñez. This record is a genuine delight, earning a well-deserved place among our “favorites.” Whether you choose to listen intently or surrender to its electrifying rhythms on the dance floor, one thing is certain: I recommend this album as warmly as the music it so brilliantly showcases.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, March 11th 2025
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