Entre Tus Flores

Miramar – Reinaldo ‘Rei’ Alvarez, Laura Ann Singh and Marlysse Simmons – are a Puerto Rican-US trio specialising in bolero, infused with jazz, folk, bossa nova, salsa and more. Plus, their live performances add a dramatic, cabaret feel to the music. Formed in 2016, their latest album offers a collection of romantic ballads; Singh and Alvarez’ vocals interweave with Simmons’ orchestration of Wurlitzer-type keyboards, soaring strings, mellow brass and echoing guitar riffs. The easy-listening, nostalgic sounds conjure up 50s movie themes, beefed up with the occasional Tarantinoesque twist. All ten tracks make up a consistent and soundly produced set, if somewhat repetitious. The standout tune is the single ‘Un Astro’, which is a beautiful, romantic duet, with an intimate vocal blend reminiscent of such classic combos as Buena Vista Social Club’s Omara Portuondo and Ibrahim Ferrer. Or perhaps, for their similarly smooth repertoire, think Pink Martini. Either way, these are sweet sounds for uplifting escapism from today’s worrisome world.