Este Momento by Trinity

Reviewed by Andy Cooper

This Trinity is actually a four-piece band from the Netherlands, carrying a strong influence and love of Latin America, on account of the three brothers in the band who lived in Peru for a number of years. They recently returned there, an event which sparked the writing of many songs presented here. Thankfully (for the UK audience) not a single word of Dutch is sung, rather Spanish and English in equal measure. Even though neither are their native tongue, their sense of fun, passion, worship and sensitivity are all effectively conveyed at various times. The Latin and Celtic moods are nicely reinforced by lead singer Elbert Smelt's command of various whistles, flutes and pan pipes: ethnic, traditional and atmospheric. The varied and intricate percussion of brother Niek and producer Frank van Essen (drummer and violinist of Iona) add a vibrant groove. The complete band, including third Smelt brother Johan's acoustic guitars and Bert Bos on bass, get a chance to show their chops during the fast and fun songs such as "Miracle" and "Ruby", which is pretty close to an Irish jig. While "Amor" and "Las Aguas" reveal their more atmospheric and romantic side. For some older fans, their sense of fun and story telling, as displayed in "Carino Latino" and "4x4", will clearly remind the listener of that much loved English band from the early '90s: Fat And Frantic. This release, like their predecessors', is surely going to grow them a loyal fan base of increasing size.