The Unurban Cafe, usually a haven for cozy conversation and eclectic art, transformed into a sanctuary of pure musical magic last night.
The air crackled with anticipation as two master Spanish acoustic guitarists, Michael Jost and Frank Slamka; Guitarras Hermanas, their names soon to be etched in the memories of all present, took the stage.
Frank Slamka Audience Michael Jost
But this wasn’t just any Acoustic Guitar performance; it was an intimate communion, a delicate dance of fingers and soul, resonating with the quiet reverence of a devoted crowd.
From the very first notes of “Baroquesgue,’’ it was clear we were witnessing something special. The guitars themselves are sister instruments crafted by the legendary local craftsman, Tomad Delgado from Candelas Guitars of Boyle Heights.
Sourced from a single, ancient tree, they possessed a unique resonance and shared Woodsey bloodline.
“Mirage & Sunset Song” exemplified the innate ability of this magical duet to spellbind and toss us from our sense of time!
The golden tones they produced were not merely played, but woven together, creating a tapestry of sound that seemed to shimmer and breathe. The musicians, with their astonishing accuracy and imaginative phrasing, explored the depths of Spanish guitar, revealing its subtle nuances and raw emotion.
There was no bombast, only a profound respect for the music and a gentle invitation to join them on their sonic journey.
Frank Suzy M. Jost
The Unurban’s intimate setting amplified the experience, allowing every delicate trill and passionate strum to reach the very heart of each listener. The crowd, a collection of reverent and deeply appreciative fans, hung on every note, their silence a testament to the captivating power of the performance.
Then, a hush fell over the room as the legendary Suzy Williams joined the duo for two unforgettable songs. Her presence was electric, her voice raw and powerful, perfectly complementing the intricate guitar work. So she adorned us with “Libertango”…
Her original composition, “Miracles,” delivered with an intensity that sent shivers down the spine, was a masterclass in storytelling through music. It was a moment of pure artistic synergy, a convergence of talent that left the audience breathless.
The recent storms, which had threatened to dampen spirits, graciously relaxed, allowing for an evening of pure celebration.
Their beautiful songs highlight the eccentric versatility and wild imaginations of their writing skills. I especially was enthralled with “Discoball,” “Moon.” & “Waltz.”
As the final notes faded, a collective sigh of contentment filled the cafe. We had been transported, if only for a few hours, to a world of beauty and emotion, a world where music reigned supreme.
This was more than just a concert; it was an experience, a reminder of the power of live music to connect, to heal, and to inspire.
The Unurban Cafe, with its warm atmosphere and discerning audience, proved the perfect setting for this extraordinary event. And as we left, with the golden echoes of beautiful guitars still ringing in our ears, we all shared a silent hope: that evenings like this would soon grace us again, under the watchful gaze of the Unurban’s welcoming cradle of arts.

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