TECHNICAL proficiency is always a guarantee from Rodrigo y Gabriela, as the Mexican Latin music twosome – Gabriela Quintero and Rodrigo Sanchez – have built a solid following through their impossibly fast, melodic and precise acoustic guitar playing.
While retaining these elements, their fifth album, 9 Dead Alive, leans heavily towards a rock sound that’s a refreshing turn from Rod and Gab, adding a welcome dimension that they’ve flirted with in the past. At times the pace and tone shift downwards significantly, which is a shame as they’re undoubtedly better when bashing out a tune at full pelt – something that, on balance, occurs enough on 9 Dead Alive for it to be another triumph.
Steven Cookson
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