Te Canto Colores is an album that’s specific, built for a particular ethos and style of music and for its aficionados. The acoustic driven instrumental record sees flamenco guitarist Davic Scott McLean explore the levels through which his craft can reach. With a host of Oakland based guest artists to add to the album’s cinematic vigour and style, he’s pin pointed his work to something immersive and engaging. Te Canto Colores was recorded in David Scott McLean’s backyard studio. He built the studio with his own hands in place of a 1920’s teardown garage that had met its last earthquake
Of course, Te Canto Colores is a definitive flamenco record. The energy, the style of guitaring, the vocal performances, they’re all part and parcel of the genre. But, as someone who has never harboured a deep passion towards listening this particular style, it was a welcome entry point to explore the intricacies and magical style that flamenco uniquely brings to life. It’s innately dynamic, almost instilling in you an unwavering desire to move and get off your feet. It’s never clamouring, but perpetually nudging and prodding you with a subtle kinetic push that has you feeling like you can tango.
Years of playing traditional flamenco shows have clearly informed McLean’s multi-faceted sense of compás (rhythm). While I myself can’t distinguish between the nuances of what makes each track on Te Canto Colores so pointedly different stylistically, I can say that each brings to the table a different air to it. Some are more joyous and boisterous, others are more intricate and awe inducing.
A definitive magician in flamenco performance, and a welcome introduction to all of those who want to explore the style.