While Latin influences are all the rage in pop music nowadays, it's good to expand beyond those boundaries and check out powerful instrumentalists like
Villegas
, a lightning quick flamenco guitarist who is the real deal. With energetic whimsy, powerful melodies, and intense seductive skills,
should soon join
Ottmar Liebert
,
Lara & Reyes
Jesse Cook
, and
Oscar Lopez
as keepers of a traditional, irresistible flame.
can play it both seductive and aggressive, and the mood swings and unpredictability help make the flow interesting. On the opening cut
"Nueva Vida,"
he blends a high-tone melody with a loping rhythmic harmony line, hopping over a steady shaker percussion groove.
"Salsa con Guitarras"
is a speedy, hypnotic anthem complete with a festive chorus of voices repeating the title over a feisty weaving of piano harmony and explosive dual-lined melody.
"Last Tango"
is a sexy romance tune, with a gentle guitar melody wafting over a sensuous and light slow-dance groove. None of this energy would be possible without the dynamic interaction between
and his great percussionists
Ricardo "Tiki" Pasillas
Luis Perez
Richie Garcia
. ~ Jonathan Widran