Cadaques
Dance of Freedom (Jett) If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all. That’s sound advice except when “nice” and “good” are the only words that describe Dance of Freedom, the second release by Austin’s Latin jazz and flamenco-guitar group Cadaques. Hector Vasquez, Steve Metz, Jayme Munoz, and Dan Mowery all have a solid history in classical guitar, bass, and percussion — that’s clear from Dance of Freedom. What’s missing is fire, and a reason to listen to Dance of Freedom over and over again, in that crazed need to know how their music works way. Although lovely, their even-tempered album doesn’t inspire this. Guitarist Hector Vasquez’s vocals are good and strong, though one suspects he considers himself an accidental singer. Unfortunately, they’re not given the prominence they deserve, particularly on “Baila Para Mi,” “Cara Mia,” “Asi, Asi” — really, anytime he opens his mouth is reason to take notice. His smooth voice punctuated with a gravelly cry adds texture to an otherwise play-by-the-rules album. There’s good energy and movement on “Lazeez,” helped perhaps by the fact that it was recorded live. Other than that, Dance of Freedom is music to chill by. Put it on while you soak in the tub or entertain a small group of friends. By the second track, you’ll be very, very, very mellow.
This article appears in May 9 • 2003.