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Ojos de Brujo is one of the most strikingly original bands of the new millennia. There is no one quite like them; not only because of their vibrant, seemingly supernatural musicality, but also because of their radical contemporary edge and strong collective spirit. They reflect their Spanish and gypsy roots, but travel light years beyond the traditional flamenco sound.
The name Ojos de Brujo translates as "Eyes of the Wizard". "We chose this", explains percussionist Xavi Turull, "because we think of wizards, witches, and sorcerers as the people who have more vision than the rest of the population. They are more aware of what is going on in this screwed-up world. And we think that music – and every other art form –should be trying to help make the world become more conscious and aware. Also, 'brujo' is a word strongly connected to flamenco. Gypsies have always had their witches and wizards protecting them."
This song "Sultana de Merkaillo" comes from the latest Ojos de Brujo release called "Techarí", because it means 'free' in the gypsy language. Special guests include Faada Freddy from Senegalese hip hop collective Daara J, Asian Dub Foundation's Prithpal Rajput, and Nitin Sawhney, South Indian fusion artist. Cuban pianist Roberto Carcassés also makes an appearance alongside respected flamenco guitarist Pepe Habichuela, and Cuban très/flamenco guitar player Raúl Rodríguez from Son de la Frontera. Cuban drums are used in bulerias, funk is layered onto rumba Catalana, and dhol drums add an Eastern flavor to the mix. However the band are quick to point out that these collaborations are the result of new friendships, and not any cynical marketing strategy. For Ojos de Brujo, the process is always organic and from the heart, and they have succeeded in conjuring their very own genre out of disparate elements.
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