Rodrigo y Gabriela at the Roundhouse

Celebrating the tenth year anniversary of their self-titled LP – now re-released as the newly remastered Crocodile Album – Rodrigo y Gabriela took to the Roundhouse stage with their usual charm and fiery spirit in a strong homage to their busking days in Dublin, Ireland where they first gained critical acclaim.

Kicking off the gig with two of their most popular songs, Torito and Diablo Rojo, the Mexican duo proved they haven’t slowed down a bit, as the thumping rhythmic guitar wound through the audience, impassioning them to a frenzy of cheers and whoops. Despite a wheelchair-bound Gabriela, who explained an injury to her leg would prevent her usual dancing across the stage, the pair were no less fiery, with her hands blurring to imperceptible speeds of her signature percussion and rhythm guitar.

Indeed, rather than a hindrance, Gabriela’s immobility was transformed into a chance to let the attendees participate. Following a call out to the room, a line of giddy fans got up on stage behind the two guitarists as they performed their next few songs, which included Savitri and the Metallica cover Orion. The duo have always spoken of their humble origins, and Gabriela woos whenever she speaks to the crowd with her open heart and genuine love of their followers.

Interspersed throughout the gig, Rodrigo y Gabriela showcased elements of new music and experimentation, which were well received. Fans are crying out for new music, and the pair promised they would be releasing a new album very soon, much to the crowd’s delight.

Towards the end of the show, they performed a touching cover of Like a Stone by Audioslave. Speaking of Chris Cornell’s passing, and his influence on their music, Rodrigo even set up a microphone to sing, a feat that he joked has never been his strong suit. But, with the room singing along, and a voice that held true, it made for a beautiful tribute.

To finish off, crowd pleaser and perhaps their most popular song Tamacun left the audience with thumping hearts and broad smiles, a fitting end to yet another spirited and impassioned performance.

Alexander Corona
Photos: Erol Birsen

For further information and future events visit the Rodrigo y Gabriela website here.

Watch the video for Tamacun here: