Consuelo’s Revenge drops new album ‘Bread & Circuses’
Consuelo’s Revenge has recently unveiled their latest album, “Bread & Circuses”, showcasing a collaborative songwriting dynamic within the band. Unlike some groups where one individual takes charge of crafting songs, Consuelo’s Revenge sees each member contribute ideas that blossom into fully realized tracks.
Comprised of Amanda Salemi, Ian Lacombe, Chris Van Booven, Kirk Anderson, Al Diaz, and Matt Swanton, this Providence gypsy blues collective thrives on a collective writing process. Each member plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and direction of their music, evident in the diversity of tracks found on “Bread & Circuses”, which dropped on October 24.
Throughout the album, different band members took the lead on various songs, resulting in a blend of influences and styles that reflect the eclectic nature of Consuelo’s Revenge. Moreover, much of the songwriting for the album took place during the challenging isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, adding depth and introspection to the album’s themes.
“We wanted to create an album that captured the essence of our collective experience during the pandemic,” explained Lacombe. “It was a way for us to evolve our sound and highlight the range of songwriters within the band.”
Van Booven further elaborated on the band’s intention with the album, emphasizing their desire to incorporate a broad spectrum of influences while maintaining a cohesive sound. With tracks like “Kosmic Klezmer”, “When We Run”, and “Bon Voyage”, Consuelo’s Revenge takes listeners on a musical journey filled with highs, lows, and everything in between.
Recording at Dyerville Recording in Olneyville, the band worked with mixing and mastering wizard Sammy D’Ambruoso to refine their sound. In addition to their core members, “Bread & Circuses” features guest appearances from Alicia Farias, Andrew Brown, and Paul Choquette, adding an extra layer of depth and texture to the album.
The collaboration with these additional artists not only enhanced the album’s sonic landscape but also brought out new creative avenues for Consuelo’s Revenge to explore. The result is a dynamic and engaging listening experience that stays true to the band’s signature blend of Balkan-inspired, klezmer-infused, high-energy sound.
In essence, “Bread & Circuses” represents a significant milestone for Consuelo’s Revenge, showcasing their growth as a band and their commitment to pushing musical boundaries. With an emphasis on diversity, creativity, and authenticity, this album is a testament to the band’s evolution and dedication to their craft.