Ale Torriggino “Sureste”

River Flow Records | June 1, 2016

Sureste By Ale Torriggino cover art

There are albums that have that little something magical about them. You put them on and the whole world seems to fade away, leaving you with just a melody and a voice. There is something very authenthic with Torriggino’s debut album. Maybe it is the lyrics tinted with a sweet melancholy. Or the melodies that would make any fan of americana very happy.

Anyway, no matter whether you speak Spanish or not, this record will take you away. It reminded me of Ryan Adams’ album “Ashes and Fire”. The big and best moments are in the little things (the moment the strings come in in Aves de invierno!). Listening to this record is a beautiful experience that feels like a well-needed break from reality. A very promising and addictive debut album. 5/5 in my book (track by track review below).

Track By Track Review:

1. Tengo que salir de esta ciudad

It feels like the perfect opening track. It sets the tone. Nostalgic, yet hopeful. My little americana heart is in heaven.

2. Roca

It sounds more upbeat. I also feel slightly lucky to understand some Spanish because it is full of beautiful images. The lyrics are very poetic. It is tender and I just love the vulnerability in Torriggino’s voice.

3. Aves de invierno

This might well be one of my favourite. It is so beautiful and soothing. The arrangements are magical (love the strings!).

4. Vas a llover para mi?

It feels like such a road trip song. The melody feels infinite. The mood is pensive and melancholic. Can this song last forever please?

5. Fuego y cenizas

Beautiful ballad. The arrangements are once again just gorgeous.

6. Siempre serás la misma

I just love the intro. The melody is one of my favourite of the album. Once again, it is an invitation to escape…at least in thoughts. The lyrics are remarkable too. The piano is a nice addition.

7. Dónde estás esta noche?

This one breaks away from the mood of the previous songs, melodically and lyrically. Bold move, but I like it.

8. Paula

We’re back to something more nostalgic. Once again, it is such a blast to listen to this. There is something comforting about the general feel of the track (about the whole album actually).

9. Viejos cofres

At the first second, you can already tell this is a gem. The melody feels traditional without falling into a caricature of the genre. The production is simply spotless.

10. Largo y triste adiós

I can’t believe this is already the last song. This feels like an amazing way to finish the album. It takes all the best elements of the previous songs (the general nostalgic mood, Torriggino’s vulnerable tone, the mesmerising arrangements). Indeed, it just makes you want to listen to the whole record again. And you should!


Check out his album on Bandcamp.

You May Also Like

Above The Prairie by The Pines album cover art

Review: Above The Prairie by The Pines

Singer-songwriter Michael Jayson playing the guitar

Exclusive interview with Michael Jayson

Twenty Something album cover art

Review: Twenty Something by Jon Bryant

esc