En Paz by Eljuri

Latin and World-beat phenom Cecilia Villar Eljuri introduces her first solo cd. En Paz has roots steeped in a rich musical heritage compounded with honest lyrics and powerful groove oriented arrangements. Sung primarily in her native language of Spanish, this is Eljuri’s most raw and passionate album to date.

The album ruminates on what is going on in the world at large and draws from intimate memories. “These days I don't see much peace around us,” Cecilia explains, “I see danger, inequities, fighting over borders, divisions among people and the loss of love. In spite of all that, I believe there is hope that we can overcome this and coexist in a tranquil society.”

Cecilia Villar Eljuri was born in Ecuador and is the daughter of legendary radio, theatre and television pioneer Paco Villar and composer Olga Eljuri de Villar. In the creation of En Paz, Cecilia tapped into her parents’ artistic legacy and Ecuadorian heritage by traveling to her homeland during the writing stage, greatly impacting the direction of the album. What unfolds on En Paz are songs versed in rock rhythms and hook-driven melodies, complimented by confident lyrics. On Sombra Negra, Eljuri delivers sultry vocals on the cusp of urgency backed by growling guitar licks. Una Ola, one of the first tracks written for the album, reflects upon a dear friend and memories of him. Eljuri describes the powers of the ocean and how a single wave can sweep you away into bliss.

A host of influential musicians also help to shape this evocative album. Yossi Fine, who has worked with rock idols David Bowie and Lou Reed as well as world-beat heavy hitters Karsh Kale and Antibalas, delivers a drum and bass foundation for the majority of the tracks as producer and principal bass player. The opening Latin Reggae track El Aire is a special collaboration with Reggae icons Sly & Robbie. With a cool and laid back vibe, the track seems “to float” along roots riddims and Latin-montuno guitar licks. Also appearing on En Paz is rock maven Johnette Napolitano, of Concrete Blonde fame, who lends her voice to the flamenco infused Jaula.

Perhaps the most influential musician to appear on the album is Eljuri’s mother Olga Eljuri de Villar, a successful Ecuadorian composer and pianist. “The track Como En Un Sueño was originally written by my mother,” reflects Cecilia Eljuri. “This song, along with many of her compositions, was originally released in the 60’s in Ecuador.
The beautiful melody and lyrical phrasing has always stuck with me and I felt compelled to re-write her song and integrate my own arrangement ideas for En Paz.” With care to stay true to the soul of the Ecuadorian pasillo, Eljuri proceeded to record a modern version of the song (with her mother’s blessing of course). As a bonus track, her mother’s original 1960’s version of the song appears on the album as a tribute to Eljuri’s heritage and lineage.

Touted as one of the best female guitar players in the world, Eljuri navigates through musical landscapes ranging from rock and pop-punk, to reggae, and Afro-Cuban rhythms, lush with her vocal hooks, harmonies, iconic guitar riffs and solos.

"Cecilia Villar Eljuri is a triple threat: She's an accomplished songwriter, a great vocalist, and one hell of a guitar player.” –NPR MUSIC

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