Artist: Esquivel Album: See It in Sound

Year: 1999
Duration: 38:27

See It in Sound - A Critical Review of Esquivel's Album

If you are into music that takes you on an adventure, then you should definitely check out Esquivel's See It in Sound album. This album is a unique blend of lounge, jazz, and Latin music that will take you back to the 1960s. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at Esquivel's background and how he incorporates various genres in the album. We will also explore the best songs on the album, the most innovative parts, and give a fair critique of the album.

Juan Garcia Esquivel was a Mexican musician and composer. He was known for his eccentric sound and arranging techniques that were way ahead of his time. He started his music career in Mexico and later moved to the US, where he became a popular lounge and jazz musician. Esquivel's background in classical music and his love for experimenting with different sounds and genres is reflected in his See It in Sound album.

One of the most distinctive qualities of the album is its use of space-age sound effects and stereo recordings that transport the listener to another dimension. It's evident in the opening song Mini Skirt, which features a hypnotic organ melody, a groovy bass, and playful background vocals. The song showcases Esquivel's ability to create a unique sound by layering different instruments on top of each other.

Another standout song on the album is Surfboard, which blends Latin rhythms with surf music. The song's intro features the sound of crashing waves, followed by the distinctive sound of the vibraphone that sets the mood for an exotic adventure. The song's tempo changes throughout the track, keeping the listener engaged and curious about what's coming next.

Esquivel also showcases his ability to arrange jazz standards in a unique and refreshing way. In Night and Day, he treats the melody like a rollercoaster by taking the listener on an exhilarating ride. The song starts with a slow tempo and gradually builds up the intensity with each section. The horn arrangements in the track are nothing short of genius, and the rhythm section keeps the listener on their feet.

The album's most innovative part is how Esquivel uses his orchestra as a lead instrument. In Lapache, the orchestra provides a playful backdrop to the lead guitar and vocals. The track takes a twist when the orchestra breaks into a chaotic and dissonant jam, highlighting Esquivel's experimental side.

Critically speaking, while the album is a masterful piece of work, it may not appeal to everyone. Some of the sound effects may seem gimmicky, and the multiple genre shifts in the tracks may be jarring to some listeners. However, if you're open to exploring new sounds and being taken on a wild ride, Esquivel's See it in Sound is worth a listen.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an album that is timeless, innovative, and takes you on a sonic adventure, Esquivel's See it in Sound is a must-listen. The album's blend of lounge, jazz, and Latin music, combined with space-age sound effects and stereo recordings, creates a unique and refreshing sound that stands the test of time. The album may not appeal to everyone, but if you're open to exploring new sounds, it's a gem that should not be missed.