Album Review: Santiago y Los Gatos — Washing Away Wetiko
Jeff Santiago is a beloved figure in the Asheville and WNC musical community. He’s also a well-known and in-demand musician (I was fortunate to play in a group alongside him for a time). He’s also a singer, songwriter and guitarist, and longtime leader of Los Gatos. The latest full-length release from Santiago y Los Gatos is Washing Away Wetiko.
This 11-song set opens with the hypnotic and slightly malevolent “Gaslight,” sporting a heavy arena-rock sound reminiscent of mid-period Led Zeppelin. Santiago’s commanding vocal takes center stage, but the thumping rhythm and vocal harmonies deserve praise as well. “Brother” takes a more gentle approach; its acoustic textures recall Pink Floyd’s “Grantchester Meadows.” The riffy “Do-Do-Do combines a pop melody with a stuttering rhythm guitar figure subtly reminiscent of Fountains of Wayne’s “Stacy’s Mom.”
The plaintive and soaring “Sunrise Drive” has a bit of a country feel. “After Me” is equal parts T. Rex and electronica-informed alternarock, with hints of hip hop and hard rock folded in for good measure. “Aura’ is a sweeping ballad with great production and a passionate vocal. A mid ‘70s hard rock character returns for “On My Own.”
Mandolin, fiddle and other Americana-leaning textures are at the core of “No Way.” “Heavy Crown” is a contemplative piano tune with an understated, elegiac feel. Washing Away Wetiko takes the listener to many places. The brief title track isn’t a song at all. “Eres Tú” closes the album en Español, a fitting conclusion for a band naming itself after un gato. Ultimately, the album’s varying musical styles indicate not a lack of focus but a welcome and eclectic sensibility.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day for several years). The more than 5000 interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he taught a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- some 40 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: 30 Great Concept Albums is available now. Read even more about him here.