Review of Ciro Hurtado’s New Album: Luna

Music transcends boundaries–any and all. Geographies, scripts, and the very material used in instruments does not matter. The wavelength and amplitude of the sound and the mastery to make sense out of these two scientific parameters make the listeners enjoy the music, irrespective of where it comes from and who makes it. Well, this is so visibly true and tangible in Ciro Hurtado’s new album ‘Luna’, in which he treats us with sonic dishes from various countries and cultures. Allow yourself to be regaled!

Album Name: Luna

Artist Name: Ciro Hurtado

Total Time: 42:21

There are nine songs on the album with three of them having lyrics. Presenting a wide spectrum of instruments and musicians, the album is a treasure trove.

Like the fresh wave of the morning air, “Camino” opens up with the beauty of the strings…gentle, mindful, and soothing. If you heard Shambhu Vineberg’s album ‘Together’, I am sure you would be reminded of its title song listening to this one. The Ronroco surely has a meaningful sound, and the fingering technique used at the far end of the song is quite interesting. The path (meaning of Camino) has been set beautifully.

“Luna” is truly a romantic melody played on the guitar and enriched by the beautiful and deep rhythm of Bombo. The emotive power of the song is further heightened by the lilting sounds of the Quena and Zampoña flutes. Played with a lot of subtlety, the song conveys a powerful feeling.

No music album is complete without a percussion special, and what if we add a pinch of West Africa to its flavor! I know you might be reminded of some songs in the Hindi films composed by R. D. Burman. You will also notice the sound of quijada, which was quite prominently used in those songs of course sometimes improvised using a comb. “Rimac” is a peppy touch and would invite you to shake your leg a bit. Ethereal vocal sounds are also very nicely layered in between.

The longest song on the album, “Amor en Pandemia” is the first song with lyrics and what beauty it carries! Sung by Milena Salamanca, the song floats like a feather in the air, carrying the pangs of separation from the beloved. Very powerful voice!

I feel so happy I came across this album and got a chance to write about it. It has so many flavors and cultures, you feel like you have traveled a vast part of the earth. “Andean Celtic”, as clear from the name itself, carries the fusion of the two cultures–Andean and Celtic. And you will notice its uniqueness right from the first thump of the Bodhrán.

“Amanecer” is a treat for lovers of deep music, created with compassion and hopefulness. Like the ‘Alap’ of an Indian ‘Raga’, it opens up with the Quena flute setting the mood, and then the whole strings ensemble makes it a grand performance song. Feels like you are listening to it sitting in an auditorium. As we move through the dark times of the pandemic, the ‘dawn’ of normalcy is nearer.

The silky voice of Milena Salamanca again takes you on a romantic longing, pining and visualizing the love you would enjoy in the company of your beloved. “Luna Llena” makes you journey through the night sky with a haunting voice calling you home.

Another dish from the potpourri of the world music and cultures, “Taruka” gives us the glimpses of Ciro’s understanding of bringing life experiences to his craft. Inspired by a deer, this song reminds you of the bonfires and the dance around it. Also happens to be the smallest song on the album.

The album culminates with a Mexican song, “Del Norte Soy”, featuring the third song with lyrics and traditional Jarocho instruments. Once again, gifting the listeners a taste of a rich culture of music, dance, and passion.

This must be the first album where apart from enjoying such a rich texture of music, I also learned so much about the culture of South American countries.

The album is a stand-out, and in times like these, is a wonderful gift to the suffering humanity–it has feelings, emotions, passion, and most importantly it has ‘hope’.