In 2016 The Royal Orchestra of Titicaca, one of the many free-flowing ensembles initiated by Marcelo Radulovich, released the off-kilter Earthling Hymns of Christmas Past album, on which they deconstructed and reassembled festive songs. A far bigger line-up was rounded up for Cavernicolas Volume 1 for a round of more primitive sounding, but actually fairly complicated originals, with baffling rhythms alternating with 70s funk and demented disco.
It is a blend of high and low art - a melodica is taken as seriously as a saxophone or fretless guitar. It is impossible to dance to - although might try some interpretative dance moves. It is raw and smooth at the same time. Some knowledge of the work of Zappa and the avant-garde in general will be helpful in attempting to get a grip on this album. If that is not the case, just sit back and enjoy the expansion of one's usual musical preferences.
The Royal Orchestra of Titicaca:
Christopher Adler: khaen on tracks 2 and 9
Jim Call: theremin on tracks 8 and 9
Ray DeZonia: synth on tracks 4 and 5
Frank Gaeta: guitar on track 7
Mike Keneally: guitar on tracks 3 and 8, bass on track 3
Marcelo Radulovich: melodica, keyboards, bass, drum machine, percussion, drums, guitar, synth, voice... facilitator/director
Bill Ray: drums on tracks 3 and 4
Jason Robinson: sax on track 1
Santiago “Chango” Velásquez: congas on track 2, percussion on track 9
Scott Walton: upright bass on track 2
Mike Watson: fretless guitar on tracks 4 and 6
David Ybarra: guitar on track 5
Morgan Young: drums on tracks 1, 6 and 8
Cavernicolas Volume 1 is released on Titicacaman Records.
Tracks:- Augustus At The Port
- My Mother and I Disagree
- A Pinnacle
- The Sentinel
- Omelette
- T-T-Tunnel
- Fire Flies in Manila
- Dibujos Animados
- Cavernicolas
HCTF review of Earthling Hymns of Christmas Past
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