Pacha and Pörsti – Sea of Mirrors (Seacrest Oy, 2023)
Rafael Pacha from Spain and Kimmo Pörsti from Finland, both multi-instrumentalists and accomplished composers, have nurtured a profound musical partnership over the years. Their collaboration extends to various projects such as the Samurai of Prog, with this duet format being a notable example. Renowned for their deep affinity for progressive rock, Celtic, Andalusian music and folk genres, these influences take center stage in their latest offering, Sea of Mirrors.
Within this remarkable set, you’ll encounter a delightful mix of serene, acoustic folk-infused compositions, as well as the high-energy dynamism of progressive rock. Although the duo is inspired by many artists, I see connections to Camel and Mike Oldfield in their progressive rock side of things.
The rhythm section is especially compelling, providing a robust foundation for the exquisite melodies, expertly played by Rafael Pacha on a diverse array of musical instruments. Moreover, Sea of Mirrors also features stellar vocal work by Laura Pörsti.
Musicians: Kimmo Pörsti on drums & percussion, keyboards, bass, acoustic guitar; Rafael Pacha on electric & acoustic guitars, bass, keyboards, lyre, mandolin, viola da gamba, electric violin, melodica
With: Marek Arnold on saxophone; Alessandro Di Benedetti on piano; Olli Jaakkola on flute, bass flute, oboe, saxophone; Laura Pörsti on vocals; Paula Pörsti on vocals; Alejandro Suarez on vocals; Jan-Olof Strandberg on bass.
Buy the album here.