Review Summary: When Tango and Electronica decided to consummate, the result was a love child named Gotan Project.
In October of 2006, Parisian tango-fusing trio, Gotan Project released their much anticipated sophomore album. The group manages to take concept of infusing electronica elements into jazz from their debut album, La Revancha del Tango; but does so in a much more eloquent manner. Fortunately, Lunático was successful in making the tango aspect of the album the primary sound that reached the listeners ears.
For the most part, the whole album flows together rather seamlessly, yet still somehow managing to recreate the imagery within one’s mind from track to track.
Opening with Amor Porteño the song seduces and calms the listener, bringing one to an almost submissive and tranquil state of being. The same goes for Celos, which also has a soothing dream-like quality to it. This is probably due to the sensual vocals of the Barcelona native, Cristina Vilallonga, who also collaborated with the group on their first album.
The entire album is noteworthy; perhaps I am biased when I say this, but the highlight track is Diferente, the first Gotan Project track to have graced my ears. A great track that embodies the sound of the group; it is centered around a fantastic bass line which Philippe Cohan Sola claims to have come to him in a dream. The song starts with a very relaxed feel yet the percussion in the background is letting you know that it will transition into a much more upbeat and infectious song.
Mi Confesion is a good song, but not one that I would play on repeat. On this track, Gotan Project collaborates with Argentinean rap group Koxmoz. The song flows well; it is danceable and enjoyable.
Even though I feel Lunático is a fantastic album, I give it a four since I don’t feel as though it’s the best work Gotan Project can pull off. Lunático is the result of Gotan Project asking themselves, “what can we fix in La Revancha Del Tango?” The group took a step back, reexamined their previous album, found their errors and built a new album based off them, which is why I gave it a four. Lunático is a revisit to their old work, and in no way the same album; rather it served as medium in which the band could better refine their sound.
The album is a must buy/listen for those who are already fans of the group. As for those who have yet to hear of Gotan Project, Lunático is a great album for first time listeners.
Recommended Tracks:
- Diferente
- Paris, Texas
- Celos
- Domingo
