R&G vocals on ‘OurHome’ for ‘Something Very Powerful’
For over two decades, the Mexican duo Rodrigo y Gabriela has captivated audiences with an instrumental sound built on the sheer power of two acoustic guitars. Yet, in a stunning evolution, they have opened up an entirely new dimension of their artistry by adding lyrics and vocals to their work, inviting listeners into a profoundly personal and philosophical landscape.
This new exploration found its voice in the track “Somos Como Tú” (We Are Like You), which is featured on their latest album, OurHome. Far more than a song, it serves as a meditation on themes of migration, displacement, dignity, and the universal search for a sense of belonging, all sung in Spanish, their native language.
The genesis of this vocal debut is a story of persistent pursuit. Rodrigo Sánchez recalls writing the song while living in Paris in 2015, a piece he had loved for years but struggled to find a version that truly sounded like their unique style. It took a decade of dedication to achieve the recording that felt both powerful and honest, a testament to their commitment to finding authentic expression.
The vocal arrangement of “Somos Como Tú” is a dynamic blend of their signature instrumental prowess. Sánchez takes the lead vocals, while Quintero responds with a rapid, electrifying cadence that hints at his heavy metal roots. This vocal tapestry is further enriched by hand percussion and a fan choir, lending the track a unique, communal energy.
The entire album OurHome is framed by the idea that home is not merely a geographic location but an internal state of being. Gabriela Quintero describes the album as a journey of connection and renewal that emerged while they were immersed in the artistic environment of Japan. They recorded the 11-track set in Japan, producing it at NK Sound Tokyo, embracing the country’s renowned aesthetics and attention to beauty.
This pursuit of beauty extended into their earlier work, including the single “Monster.” This track received a visually stunning music video created by legendary manga artist Naoki Urasawa, an inspiration that cemented a deep, personal connection between the guitarists and the creative world.
The collaborative universe of OurHome brought together a truly exceptional roster of talent. The album features contributions from former Megadeth guitarist Marty Friedman, cellist Hiyori Okuda, and guitarist/composer Yukihiro Atsumi. The final production was handled by Grammy-winning mixer Dave Sardy and master Stephen Marcussen.
Rodrigo y Gabriela’s journey reflects a career defined by breaking down musical, cultural, and geographical boundaries. Their sound masterfully oscillates between the powerful riffs of heavy metal and Latin rhythms, performed with classical precision. Now, they are taking this expanded vision on the road with an extensive U.S. tour, starting in Dallas and continuing through major cultural hubs like Washington, D.C., New York, San Francisco, and Seattle.
Listen to the full story and album OurHome.
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