Brandon Lopez is a bassist and composer living in New York City. His work deals with work, improvisation, and finding new modalities and sonic possibilities on the double bass.
Hi, this is Brandon Lopez, a bassist and composer based in NYC and this is my ListN up playlist. I hope you enjoy.
The overall theme is revolutionary music of America.
“Eleggua Moyuba” by Los Chinitos
The preservation, extension and transformation of tradition by displaced people is a specific interest for me. The many traditions of the Caribbean, I feel, showcase a kind of resilience of working people through the most abject conditions. Venceremos.
“Pr Las Trenzas De Tu Pelo” from Jarana’s Four Aces
The lilt of the Afro-Latin tradition is irreducible by notation. For me, aurality is the primary form of transference of a good time feel.
“Alas de Sombra,” Performed by Hermanas Mendoza Suasti
Harp, guitar and vocals from Ecuador.
“En Cadenas” by Eddie Palmieri
RIP to the king of NY, Eddie Palmieri. “I don’t want to die in chains” has a specific ring to it, considering the situation of Puerto Ricans both stateside and on the Island.
“El Día De Los Sorullos” by Chuito y Conjunto Típico Ladi
My great uncle Mengol Díaz is considered one of the great guitarists in the Puerto Rican tradition. I think he’s the guitarist on this recording, but can’t verify. Either way, the Jibaro tradition occupies a special place for my memory.
La Ciudad by Cergio Prudencio
The Bolivian Composer Cergio Prudencio’s music was introduced to me by the composer/artist Cecilia Lopez. His work with Orquesta Experimental de Instrumentos Nativos in an anti-imperialist approach to the orchestra. I think that all the instruments in the orchestra are from the people of the Andes. Brilliant work from a place that has faced the most abject conditions of the colonial situation and found its liberation. Look up the history of Potosí.
“‘Hay que caminar’ Soñando” from Caminantes by Luigi Nono
Luigi Nono said his invitation to Latin America helped cement his communist ideology. I think his writings on music are a must read for the anti-imperialist.
Study No. 11 by Conlon Nancarrow
Conlon’s exiled to Mexico City during the red scare. For me, his hermetic work with the player piano produced some of the most interesting music of the U.S. tradition. He fought in Spain with the Abraham Lincoln Brigade, and later in his life he refused to renounce his ideology to regain U.S. Citizenship.
Cecil Taylor at The 1978 White House Jazz Festival
I think Cecil Taylor’s discography is the true national anthem. 🫡 😂
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