Sal, Mel I Vida (Comprising of a guitarist, singer, percussionist and a dancer, their performance aims to show ”pure flamenco forms and structures, from the oldest to the very new…”
The guitarist begins the set, followed gradually by the singer and the percussionist on his wine box drum. After a suitable introduction, they are finally joined by the lithe and beautiful dancer. After a song spent clapping and tapping out the flamenco with her feet, she rises and fills the stage with her presence. She is exquisitely feminine but assertive and powerful, dressed in a sleek and elegant version of the traditional flamenco gown.
It is a shame that there is not more information on which forms the songs and dances are showing us, and who the ensemble are, but this a marvellous evening whether you know the background or not. Every member of the group is a vibrant and accomplished performer, and the stage crackles with the energy they produce together. Their love of flamenco, and joy in working together, infuses the haunting and passionate songs, the percussion conversations, the guitar melodies and the dance.
An unforgettable evening; Sal, Mel I Vida richly deserves the two standing ovations they received.
5/5
Morag Patterson
