SXSW Itch Pick: Darondo
For today’s pick, I’ve decided to highlight an artist that made his mark in a way that would make Lauryn Hill pleased; he released three singles during the 70′s and then mysteriously quit the music scene without making another appearance for over 30 years. But lucky for us, this legendary R&B performer will leave his Bay Area home and make a trip out to this years festival.
Many enter the music world with agendas. Scenarios where the booze and shows flow freely are common amongst those who take jobs in the industry. But Darondo had something else in mind. His desired to be in music was just a hobby for him, a creative outlet for the time being. However, the songs and his voice (which has been compared to Ronald Isley and Al Green) have sustained. His records, which are considered rare to many dedicated vinyl collectors (“Legs Pt. 1 had only 2,500 presses and is considered a very coveted single, selling between $400 and $600) are reminescent of the funk/soul/do-wop sounds that helped him to open up for James Brown during a San Fransisco tour at one time. The three singles, which were re-released on Ubiquity Records in 2006 (there was a great demand after BBC 1 Radio DJ Giles Peterson showcased Darondo’s “Didn’t I” track for his “Giles Peterson Digs America: Brownswood U.S.A.” CD compilation) have started to create more of a buzz for him, rightfully securing a place for him at SXSW.
Check out his album, Let My People Go, which contains the A and B sides of the three 45 singles, along with three revisited demos. The songs, which range from Afrobeat, to Latin and of course, funk will epitomize the 70′s style it was created under. The slightly imperfect harmonies and jazzy guitar riffs blend magically to add true appreciation from a man who knew this opportunity was too good to pass up.
And don’t miss this opportunity to see him before he decides to disappear again. Catch his showcase at Club De Ville (900 Red River) on Saturday, March 15th at 10:45.
-Sonya
MP3> Darondo ‘Didn’t I’
MP3> Darondo ‘How I Got Over’
I cannot wait to see Darondo’s show.
Also see Darondo w/ Nino Moschella on Friday March 14th, Free Yr Radio Broadcast Corner Day @ Free Yr Radio Broadcast Corner, 7th Street and Red River Street, Austin, TX. Free. 11 a.m.