Soul Food Taqueria

Description

It’s rare that a certain sound is entirely an artist’s own. Although undeniably a stew

of impeccable influences – from blues to folk to Latin to dusty funk, soul and hip-hop

– one cannot hear a Tommy Guerrero song without immediately recognising it as his

– and his only.

The cult skater from San Francisco is globally renowned as one of the original

members of the legendary “Bones Brigade” team. And as an accomplished multi-

instrumentalist, his laid-back soul is beloved by all who’ve basked in its blissful glow.

There’s something elemental about this music that really stirs the soul. Strikingly

beautiful and instantly addictive, it’s a kind of funk-fuelled, melody-driven, groove-

based magic. There’s a serenity and heart in the playing that radiates warmth and

splendour, as if crafted for endless sunsets. His albums that surfaced on Mo Wax at

the turn of the century have been treasured since their release and it’s two of his

most vital LPs that we’re honoured to reintroduce.

The originals were quietly pressed on to a single piece of vinyl so we’ve worked

closely with Tommy this year to bring you these fresh, limited editions. They have

been lovingly remastered, cut nice and loud on to heavyweight double vinyl and

presented in deluxe gatefold jackets.

Soul Food Taqueria continued Guerrero’s guitar soul but represented a step forward

with its polished production and greater complexity of instrumentation. Denied the

promotion it deserved upon release, it flew under the radar. It is now the most

wanted record of his wondrous back catalogue.Guerrero’s atmospheric touch and subtle guitar provide lush, glimmering pieces of

musical texture. Within his spacious compositions, uniquely arranged instruments

flourish alongside each other to create a languid soundtrack for halcyon days.

As ever, the diversity on display is beguiling. From bossa nova, samba and cumbia

rhythms to understated folk, funk and soul grooves, this is another exotic set of

mellow gold; perfectly represented by ESPO’s memorable artwork. Furthermore, the

title’s hybridity reflects the intoxicating sweep of stylistic flavours served up,

reminding us that, however tricky it is to categorise Guerrero’s special blend, it’s

always a pleasure to indulge in something so creative and adventurous.

Dubby, bass-heavy instrumentals give way to moody folk-soul – witness “It Gets

Heavy”, featuring melancholic vocals from Gresham Taylor – whilst “Thank You MK”

is a gentle ode to the tropics, featuring ethereal instrumentation, bright bass and

warm, jazzy guitars. The second half in particular contains a number of stunning

ambient tracks – check “Lost Unfound”, “Another Brother Gone” and “Broken Blood”

– built around minimalist, laid-back grooves and detailed guitar orchestrations which

wouldn’t be out of place on the latest Jonny Nash release.

Guerrero closes this flawless set with a moment of true beauty. Restrained and

graceful, “Falling Awake” is a pared back piece containing meditative guitar melodies

set against melancholic piano arrangements. It brings proceedings to the most

peaceful close. Seductively good, it reminds you just how great simplicity can sound.