From La Gomera, one of the Canary Islands, comes singer, multi-instrumentalist and composer Juan Mesa.

Canarian folklore offers the foundation for his musical identity. But—eager to develop his own musical language—he is like an alchemist experimenting with diverse ingredients in order to brew a magical potion, mixing styles like blues, reggae, samba, and son freely with local rhythms.

Juan's rootedness in the Canaries is also demonstrated by the use of local instruments. He is a master on the timple (a small charango- and cuatro-like guitar) and the chácaras (huge castanets). He also uses el silbo, the ancient whistle language of La Gomera.

His lyrics poetically describe the enchanting natural charms of the Islands. They are a call to respect the environment and the traditional folk wisdom of its inhabitants. There are pleas for romantic love also, be it for a woman, or the elements of nature. As he says in one song: "Todo es fascinación"—"Everything is fascinating."

With the release of Garajonay, his first solo album, Juan Mesa has already become the most respected Gomeran musician in modern history!

Tracklist

1. Garajonay
2. Gofio De Millo
3. Peces De Colores
4. Eres Tu La Que Mas Quiero
5. Llorar Me Libera
6. Dice Que Vos Vais
7. Besar Y Volar
8. Salta, Corre
9. El Blues En Mi
10. Mango, Papaya Y Palmeras

Video: Juan Mesa on La Gomera