The EP delves into the Aymara myth of the initial sunrise across three tracks.
Los Thuthunaka unexpectedly emerged last year, securing Pitchfork’s album of the year with their self-titled debut. It was overlooked due to its absence on streaming platforms, and I almost forgot about it until Pitchfork ranked it top in their year-end list. In hindsight, it’s puzzling how I could forget it; the album is unmatched in sound. It’s exuberant, rough-edged, and feels like it’s blasting out of a malfunctioning Bluetooth speaker in a neighbor’s yard – it’s brilliant.
Their follow-up EP, Wak’a, reduces the tempo and refines some harsh aspects. It retains the same soundscape of overblown speakers and traditional Bolivian instrument samples that blend pluderphonics with psychedelic rock. However, Wak’a is equally influenced by shoegaze, featuring wistful chord progressions and melodies, with guitars richly layered in fuzz and reverb. The horns and keys emerge through the mix like distant memories of other tracks.
Chuquimamani-Condori and Joshua Chuquimia Crampton use sound to portray the Aymara creation tale of the first sunrise over three songs lasting 18 and a half minutes. Purchasing Wak’a on Bandcamp provides a PDF, made with Ch’ama Native Americas, narrating the story in Aymara.
The EP fittingly feels like a dawning world. The opening track, “Quta (capo-kullawada),” begins with a deep synth hum and cricket sounds, evolving into an Eno-like guitar tune and distorted drum beat. “Wara Wara (capo-kullawada)” is both stunning and daunting. The dense sound is as oppressive and surprising as the first burning sunlight rays might be for those who lived in eternal night. It culminates in a cathartic pinnacle many strive for, with horns, keyboards, growling vocals, and asymmetrical guitars merging in chaotic splendor.
By contrast, “Ay Kawkinpachasa? (capo-kullawada)” offers a calming descent despite its thick arrangement where individual instruments blur. Sounds like accordion, fiddle, and keys vie for auditory space, and glitchy guitars ultimately dominate just as the EP concludes.
For those who found the debut album somewhat harsh, this EP provides a more accessible introduction to their distinctive sound. Los Thuthunaka’s Wak’a is currently available on Bandcamp.