In review--Death, the Old Man and The Sea
Mayte Martin Alcantara Manuel World Village Mixing jazz, Latin American new song and flamenco Spanish guitarist/vocalist Mayte Martin celebrates the poetry of Manuel Alcàntar. The flamenco that appears on Alcantara Manuel could be described as passionate, but more melancholic than fiery. The emphasis appears to be on the text and vocals which are framed by 2 guitars (right and left channels), double-bass, percussion and violins with Martin’s voice caressing each word with soulful emotions. I’m reminded of the late Argentine new song performer Mercedes Sosa who also has the gift of igniting text with her emotive voice. Martin also possesses a powerful and sensitive alto voice. And both performers extract the soulfulness of the Spanish language while employing it as a powerful tool that travels into the hearts of their listeners. I actually had to research the Spanish prize-winning poet Manuel Alcàntar whose poems featured on this album focus on death, the sea, heartache, wa...