The long‑awaited sophomore release and first full‑length LP from San Francisco’s hybrid psychedelic Latin blues rock explorers, Bolero! has risen—an unapologetically primal expression of human music.
The album unfolds as a guided journey through the spiritual and mortal realms, bridging past, present, and future through dynamic, richly layered compositions. Drawing inspiration from the San Francisco Sound of the late ’60s and ’70s while reframing it through a contemporary lens, the record moves fluidly between groove, ritual, and reflection.
The journey opens with “Greetings,” an acknowledgment and welcome to our planet spoken in fourteen languages by friends and family of the band, layered over a deep, funky instrumental jam that ignites the album’s momentum.
A drum hit snaps into motion the next track, “Espíritu,” beginning in a hypnotic trance with ghostly vocals inviting listeners to commune and dance with the spirits. The piece steadily builds into a powerful groove, featuring percussion breaks and soaring guitar and organ harmonies. Wind chimes drift in as a deep, tribal rhythm emerges, leading seamlessly into the final track of Side A, “Bathala.” Inspired by the ancient Tagalog deity said to have created the universe, the song erupts like a volcanic war cry—thunderous, cathartic, and elemental.
Side B opens with “U.A.V.” a bluesy, fuzz‑drenched anti‑war anthem featuring vivid, incisive lyrics delivered in a dark, Morrison‑esque baritone over a crushing, Sabbath‑inspired musical assault. As the smoke clears, “Simply Livin” rolls in like the ignition of a classic car. Rooted in California sweet soul, the track pairs everyday imagery with soothing vocal harmonies and tight musicianship, offering a warm moment of release.
The album closes with the acoustic track “Alegira,” a multicultural folk blend combining tropical Latin rhythms, wah‑wah finger‑tapped guitar leads, Spinetta‑inspired chord voicings, and intimate campfire‑style Spanish vocals. A final spiritual surprise seals the comedown, completing the album’s immersive journey.
The album was recorded and produced in Brisbane, California at Lucky Recording Co. by Kurt Schlegel and Mikel Ross.
