It was a typical Friday night in Downtown Truckee, looking for something special and not sure where to look. Little did I know I was about to find a gem among the music industry. From the very first note after walking into the Bar of America, I knew I was in for something special. A deep funky baseline, crisp flamenco sounds, tight afro-cuban beats, and beautiful voices enveloped the space. It is not too often a band makes you strain your neck, or spin yourself around for a glimpse.
Saul Rayo and the Cocina del Mundo, or ‘Kitchen of the World,’ captured the audience in Bar of America that night with music that resonates with the soul and makes you want to move your feet all night long. In a world of one-hit wonders and one-hit nobodys (American Idol) it is refreshing to hear a group of people playing music from the soul, for the soul, because it is what they were born to do.
Saul Rayo is a Nicaraguan born singer songwriter who grew up in the 60s in San Francisco. He is a lifelong musician who has had the fortune of growing up surrounded by a wealth of musical talent and diversity. With more than 350 songs penned by his hand he is truly a master of his craft. He has collaborated with such greats as Joan Baez, Randy Travis, Russell Smith, John Hammond Jr., and Utah Phillips. Saul has an amazing stage presence that is hypnotizing, he resonates a deep musical alchemy that seems unbounded and completely free. This presence has landed him on stage with Steve Kimock, David Grisman, Melvin Seals, Leon Russell, John Prine and Taj Mahal. He also has played with local favorites Particle and Hamsa Lila.
Amazingly Saul has found musicians to create a band that echoes his spirit. They are genuinely magnificent. They transition easily from melodic tones with sultry undercurrents to get-down feet-stompin’ funk with out skipping a beat. With such a diverse repertoire they undoubtedly have something for everyone. If your musical catalogue seems a little stale, search no more. Seek out Saul Rayo and his ‘funky kitchen’.
Saul speaks from the heart and promotes consciousness with music for the planet. Saul and the Kitchen promote Oneness, with each other and with the world we live. This is wisdom from which we can all benefit.
Check out Saul Rayo and the Cocina del Mundo at rayoplanet.com.
