Arnito - Ekut

Arnito

Elute
self-released; 2016

4.0 out of 5 - TOP ALBUM 

By Matt Jensen
​

If you haven’t heard of Arnito it’s time to get acquainted. Ekut is the 14th self-produced album and arguably his best. If you want to hear some exceptional instrumental work that is implemented into jazz, world music and more then it’s time to indulge yourself in Ekut.

The album starts off with the excellent “Klemaik.” It's the music that I can picture listening to while outside a quaint European cafe sipping on espresso and appreciating the scenery around me. The guitar work is a treat to listen to but the percussive elements play just as an important part. There is a Mediterranean vibe that is easy to enjoy on this song.

Next up is “Eop” which is more aligned with a jazz artist like Django Reinhardt. Cool cats and slick tricks. If you don’t find yourself snapping along with the snaps in the song you might want to see a doctor.

“Esboco” has a Brazilian vibe which showcases a prominent rhythm section. The groove feels so organic and human. A far cry from the large majority of EDM that the west consumes. “Dulce Locura” may have the best solo guitar work. If somehow you don’t enjoy the aesthetics of the song you will still be impressed by the technical ability. 

“Ciel pourpre” is an interesting, eclectic mix of styles that I couldn’t quite put my finger on. That means it's unique and I thought the percussive elements were the driving force here. “Lucioles” contains more superb guitar playing while “Spirale” is experimental in some ways and contains chant like vocals. He closes with the epic “IIham Perisi” which lasts till about the sixteen-minute mark. Just listen to this one!

​Ekut is a great album for almost any occasion. Arnito really pulls off some fabulous sounds on this album and I applaud him for it.

official website

Tweet