A Master Guitarist’s Enigmatic Work Rediscovered
Far Out Recordings, known for unearthing and celebrating vital sounds from the global music tapestry, has brought a significant piece of Argentine-Brazilian musical heritage back into the spotlight. The label proudly presents the first-ever vinyl reissue of “Puertos de Alternativa,” the elusive 1988 private-press album by the late, visionary guitarist Agustín Pereyra Lucena. Long out of print and highly coveted by collectors, this release offers a profound gateway into the sophisticated artistry of a musician who masterfully bridged cultural and sonic divides.
The Artistry of Agustín Pereyra Lucena
Born in Buenos Aires in 1948, Agustín Pereyra Lucena became a pivotal figure, celebrated for his deep connection to Brazilian music, particularly bossa nova. Despite his Argentine roots, his artistic soul was profoundly influenced by the rhythms and harmonies of Brazil, leading him to become one of the leading interpreters of Brazilian music in his homeland by the late 1980s. His musical journey was shaped by international experiences, fostering friendships and collaborations with Brazilian luminaries such as Vinícius de Moraes, Baden Powell, and Dorival Caymmi. Pereyra Lucena’s distinctive guitar style was a unique fusion, drawing from jazz and even French Impressionism, creating a sound that was both deeply personal and universally resonant.
His career was marked by extensive touring, including significant periods spent in Europe during South America’s era of political upheaval. He lived and performed in Norway for several years in the late 1970s and early 1980s with his quartet, an experience that would later subtly infuse his music with new perspectives. This transcontinental career, marked by a deep fascination with port cities and their inherent musical currents, lent a unique character to his work.
“Puertos de Alternativa”: A Voyage of Sound
Recorded upon his return to Buenos Aires in 1988, “Puertos de Alternativa” (meaning “Alternative Harbors”) stands as a testament to Lucena’s rich artistic evolution. The album title itself reflects his affinity for the evocative atmosphere of port cities and the constant flow of musical ideas they represent. “There is a flow near water that influences guitar playing, for sure,” Lucena once observed, a sentiment that seems to permeate the album’s delicate yet expansive soundscapes.
The recording is a masterful synthesis of Brazilian and Argentine musical traditions. It showcases Lucena’s original compositions, such as the joyful “Luces de Valeria” and the contemplative “Preparativos Marítimos,” alongside inspired interpretations of works by his idols, including Baden Powell’s “Pequeño Vals” and “O Cego Aderaldo (Nordeste…),” and “Tema Barroco” by his long-time collaborator Guillermo Reuter. The ensemble on “Puertos de Alternativa” features renowned Argentinian musicians: drummer Osvaldo Avena, flutist Rubén Izarrualde, and saxophonist Bernardo Baraj, all figures central to the country’s acoustic and jazz scenes. Their contributions add subtle dynamics and tonal color, perfectly complementing Lucena’s virtuosic yet restrained guitar playing.
Rediscovery and Enduring Legacy
The reissue by Far Out Recordings is a significant event for aficionados of latin music and sophisticated guitar work. Sourced from the original master tapes, lovingly preserved by Lucena’s nephew, José Lucena Pereyra, the album has been meticulously remastered by Stuart Hawkes at Metropolis Studios. This painstaking process ensures that the intimate textures and spacious arrangements of “Puertos de Alternativa” are presented with pristine clarity, making it an essential rediscovery for both seasoned collectors and new listeners alike.
Agustín Pereyra Lucena, who passed away in 2019, commanded a unique position in music history. While he enjoyed significant acclaim and collaborations throughout his career, his work often remained on the fringes of wider recognition. This reissue serves as a vital reintroduction to his artistry, allowing a new generation to experience the profound beauty and intricate artistry of his guitar playing. Reviews have highlighted the album’s gentle elegance and its remarkable ability to shift from the lyricism of the Rio de la Plata to the stark clarity of Nordic landscapes, solidifying its status as a singular masterpiece. It is a powerful reminder of the border-defying nature of great music and the importance of preserving such precious recordings for posterity.
