Impossible to pigeonhole to a particular genre, MUVA’s ‘Coyohualli’ is a distinctive folk offering with clear leanings to a more world-conscious instrumental choices, anthemic rock heaviness, and rich production for an operatic ensemble. Italian harpist Adriano Sangineto was invited for a performance on ‘Coyohualli’, and his addition elevates the Amazonian atmosphere of the piece to a more universal one that still retains its core in the dense, rainforest-inspired rhythms, looming darkness in the chords, and in the epic of the ensemble.

Led by the booming, deep yells of Dafne Carballo, who adds an essential part of the Amazonian puzzle with her war cry-like performance, the arrangement features prominent rock beats and a particularly sublime performance of the flute, delivered by Yazhmin Castanon, with an arresting solo on the instrument. The roomy mix gives the ambiance of a live performance set in a vast concert hall, leading me to believe that this piece was recorded in a live set. I can only imagine the epic, ethnic dances which are usually a part of MUVA performances, arranged by their own Euclides Barrera.

‘Coyohualli’ is the Nahuatl word for the conch or seashells, and it is a word that represents water and the sea in a way that metaphorizes life. MUVA states that the piece portrays, in an experimental way, the vision of a fisherman who carried his trade and love of the sea for generations. A delightful piece of engaging, enriching folk, executed with love and with a clear vision. MUVA’s ‘Coyohualli’ is a whole experience that would be best explored in a live performance.