Rodrigo Y Gabriela

What do you get when you get two Mexican metal fanatics, put them in Dublin, and hand them two acoustic guitars? Something that is a cross between Gypsy Kings, flamenco, jazz, and just plain rock. Rodrigo Y Gabriela’s debut album was produced by John Leckie (Radiohead, Muse, and My Morning Jacket), though I can’t say I see similarities between this record and the aforementioned groups. Fast fingering on a guitar always impresses me. And on acoustic? Doubly so. Gabriela creates rhythms on the entire length of the guitar’s neck, utilizing it as both a stringed and percussion instrument, while Rodrigo weaves in his own style, creating a harmonious composition. The Latin influence is strong (no surprise), but it’s different enough that you don’t leave feeling you’ve been listening to a strictly Latin record. Their record already jumped to the number one spot on the Irish charts and I feel it’ll only be a matter of time before they blow up the charts here. Take the time to take a listen to their album and tell all your friends!