Lebrija is always a great option for anyone who wants to live in the flamenco in a solemn and moving way. This historic territory continues to boast a vibrant scene and, above all, a large and representative community of enthusiasts, from veterans to the youngest. A vital force for this art in this town is the Peña Pepe Montaraz, whose owner passed away last February, so it is the first Flamenco Giraldilla which is celebrated without his presence.
The temperature was very pleasant, the bar terraces were full, and there was a Real Madrid football match at the same time as the recital. Jesus Mendezwho inaugurated the 36th edition of the cycle. The singer himself told me he doubted the support he would receive on this occasion, because everything comes to a standstill before such important matches. Fortunately, his predictions were wrong, and the central Lebrija venue was packed to capacity. There wasn't a single space left in the large auditorium. And the Jerez-born singer received a warm welcome from Lebrija. Ines Bacán as the main guest for the award she will receive next Sunday.
"Jesús Méndez is infallible, though he doesn't get complacent; he gauges his voice and carefully considers his interventions, always with his innate, uncontrollable bravery that makes him special. With the soleá, he demonstrated a deep understanding and mastery of the highs and lows of the vocal range."
Other colleagues went to give him some warmth, just like he did. José Valencia, Anabel Valencia, Isabel Malena, Curro Vargas, Juan Diego Valencia, Manuel Valencia, the young dancer Paula vargasThe Culture Delegate was also present, Pepe MartinezBefore the recital, the geranium-filled courtyard served as a meeting place and a spot for pre-show tapas, acknowledging how pleasant it is there. Upstairs, on the rooftop where numerous summer activities take place... ConchThe artists were waiting for the presenter's signal. "This place is packed, Jesus," I told him, hoping he'd forget his predictions.
The flamenco singer, speaking of his profile, is a leading figure who is usually admired wherever he goes, and Lebrija was no exception. "I'm going to give it my all," he declared after beginning with a toná. He is infallible, though he doesn't rest on his laurels; he gauges his voice and carefully considers his performances, always with his innate, uncontrollable bravado that makes him special. With the soleá, he demonstrated a deep understanding and mastery of the highs and lows of his vocal range. The audience felt the energy at that point. He moved them with the malagueña del Mellizo and with tientos and tangos, with those inspiring lyrics of Luis de la Pica o The Paquera.
He delved into the seguiriya, where he finally broke with the Sernita's cabal: "from the Porverita...". A bulerías section that is the flagship of the house and the driving force of life's spirit. Vicente Santiago He accompanied him on guitar, growing ever more confident, convincing, precise, and free. A rhythm abounded with Tate Nunez y Diego Montoya"Another one!" they asked. So, two lively fandangas to set a high note at the beginning of a series that will feature great voices until Saturday. Jesus is at a peak moment, we must recognize that. ♦
