Nord1kone & Brycon - Duartes (CD-R)

Duartes, the new release from Nord1kone, accompanied by Brycon, begins as a "virtual walking tour" through the tiny coastal town of Pescadero, a place known for mainly for bread and a 130-year old restaurant that bears the name of the man who founded it, Frank Duarte. For the next twenty some-odd minutes, Nord and Brycon take us on a creative and witty journey through beats, raps and rustic destination dining. It's not a traditional concept record, it's more of a "play within a play" - but it sets a tone allowing for both producer and emcee to explore concept and structure from a refreshing perspective. The interludes, skits and references all help to shuttle the experience back and forth through time and place, from the perpetually old-time seaside village to the new yet broken modernity of The City. There is a lot to digest here and luckily, there is ample opportunity to nod, reflectively and rhythmically, and sit back with the meal prepared by our humble chefs du jour. Duarte's Tavern is a tourist destination in its own right but this Duartes should inspire repeated visits through the years.