Band: Trinadora
Album: Trinadora Sounds
I have to make a confession, as much as I love rock and metal music, I have a soft spot for well composed and sung Americana and folk music. There is just something about the simplicity of the music that fits into those genres. And Americana music often encompasses a wide variety of sounds. So, time for something different. Let me introduce you to Trinadora.
Trinadora was created when Ron Holm and Jannie Nelson combined the sounds of a guitar with an ocarina, and the result was amazing. Based in Rockford, Illinois, Trinadora plays many live venues around the state.
Named after the Argentinian native bird known for its unique, trill-filled songs, Trinadora’s music is so unique that, at times, I’m reminded of folk music with a Cajun flair, and other times the French Riviera comes to mind. Their sound reminds me of a combination between Roy Orbison and Fleetwood Mac?with a dash of jazz, bossa nova, and blues. The duo occasional add a harmonic, piano, and other instruments, but the music remains perfectly simple, reminding listeners that great music can be made without any electronic effects.
They songs on the album are fairly short, but I really enjoyed this album. There are eleven tracks, and each song is unique, allowing listeners to choose a favourite among them. The musical abilities of Ron and Jannie are astounding, and I love how both contribute to the vocals.
“Cafe on the Square” has some distinct Latin flare adding a fun and tropical feeling to this song. I can’t help but envision a lounge singer surrounded by a classically dressed audience. The simple guitar and light piano is lovely complimented by the soft vocals.
“Who We Are” is definitely my favourite. The piano and guitar create a perfect balance and harmony with the male and female vocals. Like the rest of their music, this song focuses on the intricate and complicated feelings of love and longing for another.
“Anam Cara” is a close second favourite. Dominated by the guitar, this song sounds darker and more complex that the others. Jannie’s ocarina adds an exotic feel to the gentle and twangy guitar. Together they create a melody that struck me as being profoundly beautiful in its unusual simplicity.
The album ends on a fun and upbeat note with the final track “Retro-Rockin? Roadhouse.” Think of the Grease soundtrack, but without the chorus line. The beat is big band, but the sound is old rock, blues, and country with a jazz influence. I thought that this was a great way to end an already fantastic album.
I really suggest checking out this album. The imagery that is invoked while listening to the album is amazing and it is easy to get carried away with each note that Ron and Jannie play. After all, it is getting close to the time of year when you need to take a few moments, sit back, and listen to some great tunes.
Samantha Stevens is an aspiring writer who loves combining her love for literature with photography, painting, music, and all creative pursuits.
