Both trumpet-player Luis Vicente and percussionist Vasco Trilla expand the sonic horizons of their instruments, creating "ghost strata". In geological terms, "ghost strata" are the no longer present parts of rock formations that have been eroded or destroyed by nature or reshaped by humans. Their ghosts are still visible in the remaining rock surface, yet their former presence can only be imagined. The concept gives a deep feeling of relativity that even something as solid as rocks are just passing through, just a transitory element in the vastness of time. This paradox of presence and absence, of solidity and vulnerability also qualify the music of both musicians.
Trilla’s percussion leans toward resonance and elongated tones, emphasizing sustain and subtle vibration, while Vicente’s trumpet sounds more mournful than ever—hovering gently around a central pitch, releasing fleeting yet vivid phrases that feel both immediate and timeless. Together, they shape soundscapes that are strange and enigmatic, at once unsettling and deeply alluring.
“Strata #3” stands out as my favourite track. It opens with clear, ringing tones that gradually dissolve into a wider, immersive drone, coloured by the horn’s strained, creaking textures.
"Strata #4" starts with a tribal flute, bringing to life some memories of times long gone, with again hard to fathom percussion, repetitive and unexpected, and ending with multiphonic muted sad trumpet.
This music feels like the sonic counterpart to impressionist painting—an exploration of light and reflection in sound. Subtle tonal shifts, fleeting textures, and delicate details gather and dissolve, blending into something far larger than their individual parts. The result is immersive and elusive, difficult to define, far beyond language or comprehension, yet an incredibly rewarding listening experience.
This is their thirteenth collaboration on record, and their third duo album. It is unique in its qualities and sound.
Highly recommended.
Listen and download from Bandcamp.
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