Trip-Tango. I know it sounds hokey but this is the best description I have for Gotan Project’s work. Lunatico build off the same downtempo infused tango structure that made their 2001 release, La Revancha Del Tango, such a delightfully decadent affair. It is languid and sophisticated, making no excuses for its deliberate pace Lunatico will hypnotize you with hushed vocals and sparse arrangements. It is a beautiful and compelling album that makes the accordion, a much maligned instrument of Polkas, into a vibrant and sexual instrument–technically, it is a bandoneón which is a member of the accordion family.

“Notas” is the best example of the Kruder & Dorfmeister inspired downtempo beats that are fat and round but cool to the touch with crisp drum work that is like the clinking of ice cubes in a low ball thirsting to be refilled. Enveloping the loping bass line is a lush string arrangement punctuated by the sharp bandoneón refrains setting the tone for a modern interpretation of the tango. “Celos” is a sultry vocal piece that is deeply rooted in the classic jazz stylings from the 30’s and 40’s but with a decided contemporary twist as the production is more prominent with each texture given treatment so that they stand out. Cristina Villalonga’s work is outstanding and it features her swapping melodies with the bandoneón near the close of the song. In contrast to these songs is the building urgency of “La Viguela” which is built upon a simple bass loop that propels the composition forward, compelling the arrangement to surge outward only to stumble and fade in the end.

Lunatico is an excellent sophomore effort and shows the groups talent in mixing traditional forms with new methods and is easily one of my favorite albums of the year so far. If you are in the mood for something sultry, sophisticated, and sexy you could do no better than this album. Very highly recommended. You can pick it up at either Amazon or eMusic.