In a world with such distinct categories of music,
Children of the Revolution break the genre lines by melding
together influences from Spanish flamenco, rock, refined
pop, Greek rembetiko, and many other areas of musical
styles. COTR’s concert August 18 at the Kirkland Performance
Center was an exhibition of its
diverse style and inimitable performance. The group,
born in 1998 by vocalist Vassili and guitarist Eric Jaeger,
incorporated other musicians throughout the years including
the Barcelona native EncarnaciŪn
who graces the audiences with her flamenco dancing,
singing, and guitar playing.
With five different drums on stage, three acoustic
guitars, a piano, and an electronic keyboard, COTR members
used their hands and feet as another instrument to
add to the style and sound of their music. The rhythmic
clapping soon became an art form all on its own when it
accompanied guitarist Jaeger in several songs.
EncarnaciŪn used her high heel
shoes on the stage, not only show off her seamless dancing
abilities, but also to tap out a sound as energetic as the
music with which
it collided.
As the concert
went on it became apparent that lead singer and guitarist,
Vassili,
danced as smoothly as he played and sang. Encouraging
audience participation, COTR had people dancing in the
aisles to the lively tribute song, “Angeles de Bolivia.”
Another highlight from the evening was a solo drum
performance in the beginning that made audience’s fingers
ache just watching, while at the same time had the vibrant
beats resonating through listeners.
COTR has
appeared in several clubs throughout the Northwest and
Canada. They have also performed in Taiwan and at major
festivals such as Bumbershoot in Seattle. Through
its music,
COTR play to inspire unity. Its
unique sound will carry
the group
far in its
aspiration to accomplish
unanimity in the world.