CD Review: Rodrigo Y Gabriela

Rodrigo and Gabriela, two fine, young guitarists from Mexico City, took the long road to their new album, Rodrigo Y Gabriela. Leaving the heavy metal scene in Mexico City, they transplanted themselves to Dublin, Ireland when a friend presented them with the opportunity of a free place to stay.

Anyone who understands the Irish knows of their love of music. The Irish clubs embraced R&G's passionate instrumental performances, influenced by their Latin roots and their love of heavy metal. Quite a strange blend, you say?

Well, it's definitely not an immediately apparent fusion, although they've taken those metal influences and transformed them into something uniquely their own. They certainly have an original take on Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven" and Metallica's "Orion", and while this might not be your uncle's metal music, it could well become yours. This dynamic duo makes wonderful music with their guitars and, whatever you might call it, the listener will find their music colorful and compelling.