Aghora is the unique brainchild of Miami-based Venezuelan composer, guitarist, Berklee alum and martial artist Santiago Dobles. I mention the martial arts because Dobles' music is heavily informed by his immersion in yoga and qigong, and the spiritual philosophy surrounding them. Aside from the eastern musical and lyrical influences, Aghora's sound is an assortment of heavy, peaceful, shredding, jazzy, technical and beautiful all at once, and somehow manages to sound cohesive and clear of purpose through it all.
The first, eponymous album featured the legendary rhythm section of the Seans (bassist Malone and drummer Reinert), and is worth the listen on that merit alone. But Dobles' guitar work is almost equally impressive (and that's saying a lot), and unknown vocalist Danishta Rivero's Indian-influenced singing is arresting, if a bit unpolished. I highly recommend this album as well as the follow-up, Formless, which featured new members in impressive bassist Alan Goldstein and the more refined (but less unusual) Diana Serra on vocals and improved production by the great Neil Kernon. Both are unconventional and interesting works, expertly performed, with the common thread being Santiago Dobles' unique blend of ethereal world music, modal jazz fusion and technical progressive metal and his impressive soloing. Here's one song from each of the releases for you to compare and enjoy.
No comments:
Post a Comment