Using a Veracruz harp as their foundation, Ventura, CA high school friends Rey Fresco will release 'The People', collection of feel good songs that integrates flavors from each of their origins with their local upbringing.
Rey Fresco's sound defies easy categorization with hints of classic 'Harder They Come'-era melodies and a touch of 'D'yer Maker'-style irreverence, mixed with traditional Son Jarocho music of Veracruz Mexico.
Just two years ago, Rey Fresco was born out of a marathon jamming session with drummer Andrew Jones and his friend, harpist Xocoyotzin Moraza (aka Xoco, pronounced sho-ko).
Their debut full length album begins with an appreciation of "Mother and Child Reunion" on "Fairlie." Honoring his Fijian heritage, frontman Roger Keiaho sings about the sacred shark on King of the Sea" a ballad fused with fuzz guitars and ska percussion played in a minor key Also featured on this debut album, Rey Fresco covers "Chan Chan" sung by harpist Xocoyotzin Moraza, a popular Cuban song originally written by Repilado Munoz Maximo Francisco. Some other notable tracks are "Precious Time" reggae rock ballad giving appreciation to time with loved ones, and the ever popular "All in Awe."
Harpist Xocoyotzin Moraza earned a degree from UCLA in ethnomusicology, and brings a lifetime of study of Son Jarocho music to the groupOn 'The People,' he plays guitar, requinto jarocho - a traditional Mexican four-string instrument plucked with a bullhorn - and the beautiful harps handmade by his father.
Using techniques he learned from making surfboards, Andrew Jones plays drums he built from fiberglass and resin. Roger and bassist Shawn Echevarria bring a Caribbean flavor to the mix from their experiences in local reggae bands.
As Xoco puts it "Everyone contributes in their own way and it's the unique elements and the way they come together that are the core of "The People."
Learn more about this new artist at reyfresco.com
You can also connect with Rey Fresco on Myspace and Facebook.
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I'm so excited for the CD release! I already bought my tickets for the Halloween party at Ventura Theater...should be great! Definitly check out the free download of the song "Precious Time" at www.reyfresco.com, it's so good! So, I also heard that Ray Fresco's been in talks about tours in the Winter of 2009-2010...it's gonna be great!
ReplyDeleteJust downloaded "Precious Time" for free off of www.reyfresco.com. Wow I can't wait to buy their album on October 27th! Also I hear that they are talking about touring this Winter!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this band. I completely agree with Xoco. Their blend of unique elements really makes for great music!
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