Seis Poemas

Although Spanish to English translations are available, the smooth, committed voice of Afro-Peruvian singer Susana Baca transcends mere words, vividly conveying the passion and meaning inherent in the folkloric Afro-Peruvian tradition that she’s preserved, expanded and gloriously brought to the rest of the world for the past twenty years. Her singular vocal style is to twine and twirl, in a whisper or a sudden flare, over often spare, instrumental accompaniment consisting of complex rhythms from Juan Madrano Cotito’s box-like Cajon and both single notes and chords from Sergio Valdeos guitar. The haunting result is best heard here on the jaunty “Resbalosas (Slippery Ones),” where Baca frequently sings herself almost breathless, and which like much of the Afro-Peruvian tradition sets lyrics to upbeat rhythms all topped off by the kind of tour de force vocal performance Baca has made her specialty. This EP closes with the gorgeous melody of “Un Cuento Silencioso (Silent Story)” which speaks of “magnetic fantasies” and a world of possibility come alive via Baca’s audible pain and joy.