I’m back from Buenos Aires, where I bought a stack of new tango CDs. So, over the next few months, I’ll be introducing some new and old orchestras. Let’s start with Otros Aires and their new CD, 4 (yes, it’s simply titled ‘4’). Most tango enthusiasts are familiar with Otros Aires, and many of you categorize them as a neo-tango group. Actually, I’m not sure I should simply label Otros Aires ‘neo-tango.’ The music is much more than just electro-tango, even though the group incorporates a lot of percussion and sample elements. Otros Aires was founded in Barcelona in 2003 by Miguel di Genova (guitar, samples), Toni Cupedo (bass), and Josep Lluis Guart (keyboards). A year later, Hugo Sattore (bandoneon), Pablo Lasala (piano and keyboards), and Emmanuel Mayol (percussion) completed the lineup. Initially, they used traditional samples from classical orchestras and added electronic beats, sequences, and rhythms to create new music. Some pieces are tangos, milongas, and slow waltzes, but sometimes the categorization is difficult. Many pieces are danceable and can create a new atmosphere on the dance floor. Here are some examples of general Otros Aires tracks (not just from ‘4’):

Let’s begin with the traditional milonga ‘Amor que se baila,’ which sounds almost like a traditional milonga but, on closer inspection, reveals itself to be a blend of a bandoneon theme reminiscent of ‘Milonga de mis amores’ and unsettling electronic beats. The video shows two dancers (Gustavo Russo and Alejandra Mantiñan) performing to different music (La Luciernaga). The video has been adapted to the new sound. Otros Aires uses video as an important part of their live performances.

 

The second example represents the original style of Otros Aires. The song ‘Sin Rumbo’ begins like a traditional tango and develops into an electronically and rhythmically oriented melody.

My favorite tracks are ‘Allerdings’ and ‘Big Man Dancing’ (this song is from the new album). They offer a glimpse into the very rhythmic and driving development of neo-tango music. Definitely worth considering as a tanda in a modern-oriented milonga.

Abrazos,

-Richard