TRÍO

This is where it all started for Argentinean power-trio Sur Oculto, a band whose ballsy approach to the contemporary standards of jazz-rock has meant a relevant statement for those who are acquainted with their material. A short time after the definition of the current line-up, the trio decided to release this debut recording as a domestic item that is closer to the mini-CD format due to its short span (less than 30 minutes). "Trío" was recorded in a few live takes at Crossover Studio in January 2002, and it is clear that the trio was already focused on their own kind of style: powerful jazz-rock with a strong funky component and robust interplaying. Some tracks will later reappear in the "Estados" album. 'Bus Repeller' is quintessential Sur Oculto, bearing a well-constructed amalgam of cadence and ambience: keyboardist Morás feels comfortable with his emulated organ leads and piano rhythmic drive. 'Mandrágora II' continues with this sort of dynamics, albeit with a slightly decreased intensity. The piano virtuoso flows are never tiring since they are efficiently installed on the track's rhythmic scheme - a very Zawinulesque thing, indeed. 'Coleman' appears in its first version as the continuing factor for the energy displayed in the preceding two tracks. The last ¼ hour fills my favorite section of the album. 'La Claridad del Carajo' (what a title, both smutty and poetic) retakes the extroverted nature of track 1, taking it to a more pronounced psychedelic tone: in this way, the aggressive potential reaches a more explicit feel. 'Mandrágora' culminates the album's whole picture featuring incredible alternating solos on keyboard and bass. Although the band doesn't precisely aim at the art of melody, their repertoire's basic motifs tend to bear clear hooks due to their pulsating riffs, and this closure is the biggest example of that. A big ending for an exciting musical item. Not being essential per se, "Trío" truly deserves praise for its high qualities in terms of vibration and punch. Sur Oculto is, without a doubt, a very important reference for what is currently happening in the colorful world of Latin America's modern jazz.