This the third time I’ve checked out Rene Lopez in the past year, he doesn’t cease to impress. I was recently present last Thursday, the 14th of November, at the Rockwood Music Lounge on Allen St. in Manhattan, when Rene took the stage with two members of his band. Infusing pure energy with Latin romance, in a cool nonchalant way which is Rene, the audience found itself entranced and effortlessly dancing. The acoustic guitar playing is upbeat, vocals are top class, saxophone licks are timed perfectly and soulful, and the innovative drum a la beer keg is spot on. So is the case at every show I’ve been to of Rene’s.
If you close your eyes and listen to the swing, you can imagine being in an actual dance club in Puerto Rico. Opening your eyes just affirms. The greatest part, music aside, is that it appears Rene is just playing for Rene. It’s artists like this that you can only admire…releasing what is truly inside them and not being swayed by anybody else.
Such is the problem in today’s world. Artists are picked up by record labels, galleries, and corporate contracts only to be told what to do and how to do it. It’s a shame because the world would be so much more creative and cultured if we all followed Rene’s lead and played from within.
On a side note, I highly recommend checking out Rene Lopez and his band live, especially if it’s at the Rockwood Lounge where the only cover charge is ordering a drink…should probably make it a tequila.
~Tashiro~
Midnight Love – Rene Lopez Rockwood Music Lounge
