Category:
Electronic / World

Try if you like:
Bebel Gilberto, Caetano Veloso, Gotan Project

I know I'm not alone in my admiration for Federico Aubele's debut album Gran Hotel Buenos Aires. So when his sophomore album, Panamericana, crossed my desk I jumped at the chance to review it. The album name comes from the network of roads that go from Alaska to Cape Horn, Argentina, almost the length of North and South America. This album seems a little more traditional than his debut. Sure, there are still the electronica influences at play on tracks like "La Orilla". Primarily though, it seems that Federico is happy sticking both feet in tradition. And a great tradition it is too. Have a listen to "Pena" and use it for a soundtrack to fall in love to. Songs such as this have a instant classic feel to them. They just feel honest and sincere. The atmosphere that Aubele is able to harness seems very real. A variety of vocalists are used (including himself) - Amparo Sanchez, Vernie Varela, and Natalia Clavier - who will accompany Aubele on tour. The electronics that he uses only serve to enhance the songs, not overwhelm them. See "En El Desierto" for a perfect example of how this is accomplished. If you are looking for a little more of the beat side of things then check out Gran Hotel. Much more prominent there. 

Federico Aubele has created a lovely album that traditional Argentinean purists should praise him for. He is a voice of a new generation of this style.