Arte Flamenco Puro's last visit to Vicar Street, seven months ago, was a triumphant success. Again promoted by the Improvised Music Company, they were just as impressive this time around. The group is led by guitarist Juan Martin and also features Antonio Aparecida (vocals) and dancers Raquel de Luna and Salvador El Tigre.
Their music is complex, but was delivered with such verve and passion that it captivated the audience. The pieces are normally built around a series of increasingly intense climaxes, yet behind it all is a dignified restraint; chaos keeps threatening, but rhythmic discipline prevails.
Subtly amplified, Martin managed to sound more like a full band than a lone guitarist. His range is remarkable, from the most delicate accompaniments to fiercely aggressive melodic playing. Aparecida's huge, belting style of singing still left room for intricate ornamentation. He and Martin seemed to have a particularly close understanding, the guitar and voice intertwining and echoing each other.
In flamenco, the dancers lead the music rather than simply responding to it, so the whole dynamic changed when de Luna and El Tigre performed. Both were magnificent, improvising at length and leading the music in the most unexpected directions. El Tigre's intricate dancing to a seguidilla was perhaps the dance highlight of the concert.
The four performers seemed to enjoy themselves thoroughly. Their passion and enthusiasm were infectious.