London-based ensemble Periscopi Invertit, led by the exceptionally talented composer, arranger and bass player Mireia, delivers a musical experience built on cultural diversity and sonic exploration. Mireia’s journey as a bass player began with her roots in Catalonia which she’s since brought to the music scene of London.
Graduating from the Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya in 2010, Mireia has threaded her background into Periscopi Invertit’s sound, which integrates traditional folk melodies with elements of jazz, funk and Latin music. In 2021, Periscopi Invertit made their debut with the single “El Poder del Cant.” They continued to make an impact last year with releases such as “Ball pla de Tirig” and “Ball Pla de Lladurs,” while simultaneously crafting music for their highly anticipated debut album.
Earlier this year they released a rework of a Catalan folk classic called “Ball de l’àliga.” Now they bring us their latest release with another interpretation of a classic Catalan folk ballad titled “La dama d’Aragó,” a piece that originally traces its roots back to the fourteenth century.
“La dama d’Aragó” is a love song that shares verses with a Greek medieval folk tune popular around the Mediterranean basin during the medieval age, a period when Catalans had significant control over the Mediterranean Sea, facilitating cultural exchanges with other communities in the region. Today, this song is a cherished part of the Catalan musical heritage, still alive in Catalonia Valencia, and the Balearic Islands.
Reimagining the song in their own musical vision, Periscopi Invertit’s version of “La dama d’Aragó” reframes the composition in a jazz setting, lifted by the delicate sounds of the oud and darbuka. From the soft plucks and hushed percussive patters that open the song, elegant vocals carry the song’s leads with dazzling grace as the mellow arrangement flows with intricate flourishes and gentle rhythm.
Beautiful piano plinks add soothing dashes of sonic hues while instrumental interludes provide tender moments of enchanting musical bliss. With the lilting sway of the rhythm, traditional instrumentation and gorgeous vocal performance, Periscopi Invertit once again showcase their knack for keeping historical musical pieces alive and presenting them for a modern audience. With their first full-length record on the horizon, Periscopi Invertit are sure to capture the hearts of listeners around the world with their musicianship talent, arrangement flair and truly compelling musical output.
Listen to La dama d’Aragó below
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