'Soldemedianoche'
(Siesta 198)
'Midnightsun'
“No one can explain the way I'm going to love you”
Alberto Matesanz has been described as a bit of a mini-Brian Wilson,
with a keen old-fashioned ear for producing, both in finding original
arrangements for pop and in using studio “tricknology” wisely. For this
record he has achieved the most sophisticated sharpness, yet at the same
time oozing a melancholia. His sense of wit and tunefulness has real substance
but no mannerism. Let’s say that he has invented a minimalism that is
as sexy as stardust.
Sol de medianoche has romantic foibles and domestic comedy/ tragedy themes.
From the buoyant feel of a carousel (“Cada vez que amanece”, “Días”) to
bittersweet vignettes (“Bastante”, “Esperando a que pase”). One can discover
moments of emptiness and solitude (“Noticias”) or joyful miniatures of
sweet sunshiney pop (“Beautiful). There is calmness and quietude (“Pleamar”
“Balsa de piedra”) and even soft sarcasm and surrealism (“Nadie lo puede
explicar”). This music is incredibly infectious, and the sound is definitely
something to long for. Mate can be described as haunting, retrospective,
and unbearably beautiful. No, the songs are not depressing at all...but
meaningful, and hopeful. They pleasantly assault your ears and your memories.
Autumn may have passed but Winter and Spring are great seasons to enjoy
it as well.
• Listen
· Buy
• more info: www.soldemedianoche.com
Credits
Almudena López Villalba: vocals, flute
Jacobo López Villalba: cello
Diego Blanco: drums
Alberto Matesanz, MATE: vocals, electric and acoustic guitars, bass, piano,
keyboards, effects.
All songs written and arranged by MATE during winter-spring 2004. Edited
by Ediciones Perezosas and Warner Chappell.
Recorded at Calle Mayor, Madrid, and at Ramón Leal's studio.
Mixed by Brad Jones at Alex the Great, Nashville, USA.
Mastered by Jim DeMain at Yes Master, Nashville, USA.
Design: Paco Lacasta
