EDUARDO MATEO & JORGE TRASANTE "Mateo Y Trasante" [CD]
1976 - Rock from Argentina
Detailed Description
Mateo y Trasante is widely regarded as a groundbreaking work of art, solidifying Mateo's genius. This Lion Productions reissue includes a 32-page booklet featuring insightful commentary from Jorge Trasante, song lyrics in both English and Spanish, historical context on the Uruguayan music scene, and a collection of stunning photographs. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Enrique Abal Oliu for his incredible photography, and to Daniel Figares for allowing us to translate excerpts from his book Mateo y Trasante: Treinta Años, 1976-2006. The booklet is printed on FSC-certified recycled paper, made from 100% post-consumer fiber using biogas energy, ensuring sustainability in this homage to a timeless album.
For those who've followed our journey through Uruguay's rich musical legacy, you're well aware of the turbulent era in the early 1970s when a military dictatorship took hold, prompting many of the country's top musicians to emigrate. However, one of Uruguay's most iconic and influential artists, Eduardo Mateo, found himself unable to leave. It was during this dark period that Mateo reached his creative zenith, despite the oppressive atmosphere. His 1976 album Mateo y Trasante, his second solo effort following El Kinto, saw him collaborate with renowned Afro-folk percussionist Jorge Trasante. Together, they pushed the boundaries of Uruguayan music, incorporating intricate percussion patterns and innovative guitar techniques, which led to the evolution of a more complex and daring musical style.
Mateo's vocal transformation on this album—often attributed to what some considered mental illness—was actually a deep exploration of Arabic musical influences. As Trasante explained, Mateo discovered new vocal modulations that allowed him to embody different characters through his voice. This bold shift in style left many of his long-time fans and peers unable to connect with his new musical persona, and the album went largely unnoticed at the time, with only about 343 copies sold.
