A visit with Sofia Rei 

 

Completely in the tradition of spring, today we are enjoying the new beginning with the music of the New York-based Argentinian singer Sofia Rei.

We listen to it in a mini-concert from the Tiny Desk series by NPR Music. Sofia takes us to the living room of her Brooklyn apartment, turned into a tropical garden, and serves us a mixture of colorful Latin American music. But this is only the basis; pedal loops and electronic sounds are superimposed on the themes. And this garden seems to be starting to sparkle - like Sofia Rei herself.

We have had the opportunity to attend her marathon concerts with the music of John Zorn twice over the years. What makes an impression at first sight - the absolute search for the perfect sound, the incredible professionalism and perfectionism of the singer. Every tone is performed perfectly, whether it's a cappella albums and concerts with her quartet Mycale or experimental projects such as her work with John Zorn. Sofia Rei, in addition to traditional Latin American instruments, has long been playing with pedals and distortions of her sound and voice. And from personal experience we say - the end result is unexpected and wonderful.

In recent years, the musician has worked closely with bassist JC Maillard, and the great Argentinian pianist Leo Genoveze has accompanied her on the keyboards. Another interesting detail is the fact that they are all part of the circle of independent musicians in New York who present the new sound by mixing styles and instruments, a lot of live playing and constant improvisations in search of modern and realistic global sound.

All these details cannot prepare the listener for the meetings with the singer live. Because even with her appearance, Sofia Rei provokes an explosion of emotions and somehow instantly grabs us into her colorful world.

Today we are happy to move to her tropical garden with a mini-concert for Tiny Desk.

And you will find Sofia Rei's music on the digital platforms.

 

April 2021

Image © MA