Ruiz, Andres: Los Deudos

Andres Ruiz, born in Buenos Aires, is another talented artist from South America. From what I can gather this is Ruiz's second album. Ruiz started studying music at an early age focusing on the drums. He has played in a number of projects with many different musical styles including jazz, jazz fusion, progressive rock, metal and pop. His latest release focuses on jazz, jazz fusion and progressive rock. On his new album, in addition to vocals, Ruiz proves he is a talented multi-instrumentalist playing piano, electric piano, synthesizers, electric guitar, drums and percussion. He is joined by Alejandro Moffardin (bass), Erica Villar (flute), Elizabeth Ridolfi (viola on tracks 5, 8 and 12), Hernan Espejo (electric guitar on track 3), Romina Grosso (vocals on track 11) and Diego Lopez Barrios (saxophone on track 7).

The songs vary in length from approximately1 to 7 minutes. There are no epics here, just short concise songs that cut right to the point. That is not to say there is no experimentation or virtuoso playing. The songs are well played, well constructed and the musicianship displayed is formidable. I feel the strongest aspect of this album are the gorgeous melodies that are found all over this disc. The songs are mostly slow to mid tempo; there are no hard rock phrases or bursts of metal to be found although there are some crunchier chords that add some rock to the mix. I found this to be a pleasant listen and was able to sit back, relax, and just listen to the music. The songs take on jazzy themes and are laced with progressive rock overtures. There are plenty of tempo changes and a variety of instruments are used, but never sacrificing their melodic structure. Ruiz also has an excellent voice which adds to the richness of the albums sound.

The album's first tune is an experiment in ambient sound suggesting waves washing over the shore and leads directly to the next song entitled "Narval" which is a real classy tune with nice soothing percussion and gentle guitar chords. The bass is quite prominent and adds some tastiness to the overall sound as does the flute. Ruiz has a nice singing voice, well suited for prog inflected jazz rock. There are also some crisp guitar chords and tempo changes that help maintain the interest level. One of my favorite tracks is "Culminacion", a slow to mid tempo number with a catchy guitar riff and nice synth work. The deeper tone in Ruiz's voice adds to the dreamy effect this song exudes.

I really like how the songs vary in texture from hard to soft and back again. This is a subtle work and one that requires your undivided attention but is well worth it in the end. This is an excellent release and should be appreciated by anyone who likes well crafted proggy flavored jazz rock. This one earns a solid 4 stars.

Track Listing:
1. Altar
2. Narval
3. Caminante
4. Culminacion
5. Los Deudos
6. El Inventor
7. Los Olvidados
8. Un Atajo al Precipicio
9. Un Hijo en el Sueno
10. Viento Negro
11. Cuando Eramos Amigos
12. Marea
13. Desolacion

Added: January 28th 2009
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
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