My first impression, based on the slipcase's art, was that of a Latin guitarist playing classical or flamenco type of music. Was I wrong or what! This is no flamenco at all! The cover art should have put a little hint in my mind about Progressive music maybe? In any cases, Rozando Burbujas is real candy for the ears as, if my memory serves me right, one co-writer puts it.
This disc is a sweet treat for any guitar player, especially if you are into acoustic music, and of course, a delight for any real music lover. To make this album even better, shall I add this as well, yes all, instrumental work? There are some nylon string arrangements here, but most of the time, Manoel used a great sounding six strings guitar and occasionally a twelve strings too. You can also hear a bit of electric tones once and a while. The way this musician plays is reminiscent to Steve Hacket in Genesis's prime time (before Peter Gabriel's departure). The album Foxtrot comes in mind with compositions such as "Horizon", if I was to choose one period in particular. Sounds good and inviting isn't it? Well, Manoel has a few pieces that could simply be considered as Progressive with keyboards and programmed percussions; helped in that sector by Luis Gonzalez. The last four tracks are essentially following that musical direction. I personally prefer the purely acoustic tunes (I know, I know, I'm a maniac!). Those are very numerous in the first section of this album, including these cool ones: " Manuts", " Una Crisis Diferente" (great low string lines ), " Mercurio Y El JUego Del Tiempo" (nice medieval feel) and "Lejos".
Rozando Burbuja is just an exquisite opus of charming organic guitar tones with a Progressive edge that simply begs for multiple hearing pleasures.
Track Listing:
1 – Mamuts
2 – Una Crisis Diferente
3 – Nudos
4 – Rozando Burbujas
5 – Mercurio y el Juego del Tiempo
6 – Reptiles
7 – Leda
8 – Deneb
9 – Niebla de Horas Pasadas
10 – Lejos
11 – La Altura del Cielo
12 – Medusa
13 – Barcos de Fuego
14 – Flor