Unlocking the Sonic Tapestry of Los Thuthanaka's Wak'a

In a surprising turn of events, Los Thuthanaka has followed up their critically acclaimed debut with an EP that not only showcases a newfound maturity but also delves deeper into the sonic tapestry that defines their unique sound. Wak’a is an 18-minute journey through the Aymara creation legend of the first sunrise, told across three songs that weave together elements of psychedelia, shoegaze, and traditional Bolivian instruments.

The most striking aspect of Wak’a is its ability to temper the abrasiveness that characterized Los Thuthanaka’s self-titled debut. The EP’s opening track, “Quta (capo-kullawada)”, sets the tone with a hauntingly beautiful blend of synths, guitar, and crickets, evoking the sense of a world slowly emerging from darkness. As the track builds towards its climax, the soundscape expands to include distorted drums and Eno-esque guitar work, creating an atmosphere that is at once both oppressive and cathartic.

The Aymara legend that serves as the foundation for Wak’a provides a rich source material for Los Thuthanaka’s sonic explorations. The EP’s title track, “Wara Wara (capo-kullawada)”, is a masterclass in building tension through layers of sound. The track starts with a slow-burning intensity, gradually adding textures and timbres that culminate in a chaotic inferno. This is an exercise in musical storytelling, where the sounds themselves become a metaphor for the first sunrise, bathing the world in light.

In contrast, “Ay Kawkinpachasa? (capo-kullawada)” is a more subdued exploration of the same themes. Here, Los Thuthanaka’s sonic palette becomes increasingly dense and complex, with what sound like accordion, fiddle, and keys vying for attention amidst stuttering guitars. It’s a fitting comedown to the previous track, capturing the sense of relief and wonder that comes with the dawn of a new era.

Wak’a is an EP that rewards close listening and attention to its intricate sound design. For those who found Los Thuthanaka’s debut too abrasive, this offering provides a more approachable entry point into their unique sonic world. The EP’s availability on Bandcamp includes a PDF booklet created in collaboration with Ch’ama Native Americas, providing a deeper understanding of the Aymara legend that inspired Wak’a.

Ultimately, Los Thuthanaka’s Wak’a is an exercise in musical storytelling, where sound becomes a metaphor for the dawn of a new era. It’s an EP that invites listeners to immerse themselves in its sonic tapestry, and one that will likely leave a lasting impression long after the music has faded away.

Source: https://www.theverge.com/entertainment/907174/los-thuthanaka-waka-review