Atypical! The least we can say after a ROD y GAB concert is that we experienced a unique moment far from the usual standards... the duo composed of lead and rhythm guitars without a singer or drummer revolutionizes the concept by bringing a breath of fresh air to a musical landscape stifled by the electro-rap that invades our radios. Finally, hope may come from Central America...
MEXICO
ROD y GAB played trash metal in Mexico City in the late 90s before deciding to try their luck in Europe with a Latin-rock genre. Since 2001, seven albums and a visit to the White House during which Obama introduced the band to his Mexican counterpart (!) have allowed the group to become world-renowned. In keeping with the times, ROD y GAB are ecologists, vegans, and advocate emotion and spirituality, the spearhead of their latest effort.
GUITARS
On the surface, the technique of GABRIELA providing the rhythm while playing her YAMAHA instrument while RODRIGO strings together solos on classical or electric guitar seems easy... the truth is quite different and the path taken by the couple since Ireland where they expatriated was salutary. The result is undeniable and the numerous excerpts from "Mettavolution" will confirm the dexterity of the protagonists. Folk is mixed with flamenco from the first notes of "Krotona Days" and "Witness Tee" which wake up an impatient audience. As a duo without a singer, it is not easy to capture the audience... however, from the start, ROD y GAB will try to explain their album in English then in Spanish in a good mood which will relax the atmosphere. This lasting atmosphere will allow the soloist to perform some games with the audience ("Mettavolution", "Hanuman" by SANTANA) which are very applauded. Moreover, all the improvised dialogues will end in bursts of laughter both on stage and in the crowd... The highlight of this concert: the cover of the song "Echoes" by PINK FLOYD. The reorchestration is complete and adapted for a dive into this 1971 hit lasting 18 minutes. The audience admires on the screen the guitar playing of the duettists who have equipped their instruments with mini-cameras allowing a total immersion. The effect is stunning and GABRIELA's palm rubbing technique will hold the attention of the audience, as will her staccatos and pickings! Other moments of note in this performance: the cover of "Clandestino" by MANU CHAO and "Tamacun", the first track from the first album that was used by NETFLIX for the series BREAKING BAD.
After 2 encores and 1h40 of show, ROBERTO y GABRIELA leave the stage on "Terracentric", as if to return to the essential and the existential. Difficult to find a meaning (to this word) as well as to songs without words. In the end, no cover of METALLICA or LED ZEPPELIN but a frenetic rhythm that keeps the spectator in suspense throughout the set. The duo from Ixtapa returns in force with a new qualitative album and a series of concerts in France. A breath of fresh air in a crazy world!
Diego OnTheRocks
