Juan Pastor's Chinchano - Memorias (2025) [Hi-Res]

Drummer and composer of Peruvian origin, Juan Pastor, presents Memorias, the fifth album from his ensemble, Chinchano. This mature and introspective work explores the deep connection between memory, personal history, and identity. The album serves as a musical reflection on Pastor's twenty years living in the U.S. and is dedicated to his 95-year-old grandmother, Celinda, who symbolizes wisdom and the bond between generations.

Musically, Memorias is a sophisticated fusion of Afro-Peruvian rhythms (such as festejo and vals criollo), Andean melodies (huayno), and contemporary jazz. Unlike previous works, this album is more focused on strong, memorable melodies that leave space for virtuosic improvisation from the ensemble members. The record transforms personal memories and cultural heritage into a universal musical language that feels both authentic and innovative.

Tracklist:
1-1 Juan Pastor's Chinchano;Matt Ulery;Juan Pastor;Stu Mindeman;Dustin Laurenzi;José "Pepe" Mantero;Gian Luiggi Cortez Mejía - Celinda [4:10]
1-2 Juan Pastor's Chinchano;Matt Ulery;Juan Pastor;Stu Mindeman;Dustin Laurenzi;Gian Luiggi Cortez Mejía - Entre El Humo [6:50]
1-3 Juan Pastor's Chinchano;Matt Ulery;Juan Pastor;Stu Mindeman;Dustin Laurenzi;Gian Luiggi Cortez Mejía - Memorias [6:56]
1-4 Juan Pastor's Chinchano;Matt Ulery;Juan Pastor;Stu Mindeman;Dustin Laurenzi;Gian Luiggi Cortez Mejía - Tonada De Luna Llena [5:30]
1-5 Juan Pastor's Chinchano;Matt Ulery;Juan Pastor;Stu Mindeman;Dustin Laurenzi;Gian Luiggi Cortez Mejía - Human Touch [4:50]
1-6 Juan Pastor's Chinchano;Matt Ulery;Juan Pastor;Stu Mindeman;Dustin Laurenzi;Gian Luiggi Cortez Mejía - Qué Frio [6:12]
1-7 Juan Pastor's Chinchano;Matt Ulery;Juan Pastor;Stu Mindeman;Dustin Laurenzi;Gian Luiggi Cortez Mejía - Descarga Galáctica [3:24]