Timpana releases “Gwandena”
"Gwandena" (Sounds and Colors) serves as the captivating title track from Timpana's upcoming album, showcasing the artistic prowess of Alejandra Lanza. Hailing from Bolivia, Lanza is a talented singer, performer, and actor who skillfully blends African, Andean, Spanish, and Amazonian influences in her work.
The album, aptly named Gwandena, weaves a compelling narrative centered around Talina, a young girl embarking on a profound journey of self-discovery. Guided by a colibrí (hummingbird), she ventures into a world where the intrinsic value of nature surpasses that of any individual. In this realm of wonder, nothing is as it initially appears, and Talina herself undergoes a continuous metamorphosis. This transformation reaches its zenith when she encounters her great-grandmother Gwandena, ultimately realizing their profound ancestral connection.
Within the album, the song "Gwandena" shines brightly, encompassing the rich tapestry of Bolivian music. A fusion of diverse instruments such as the charango, toyo (Andean flute), jembe, and Afro-Bolivian percussion, coupled with lyrics in Spanish and Quechua, this composition defies the simplistic portrayal of Bolivian culture often reduced to the "Andean panpipe" stereotype.
Timpana represents one among many talented Bolivian artists determined to showcase the abundant artistic treasures their country holds. Through her unique blend of folktronica and tropical bass, she stamps her personal touch on the musical landscape, leaving an indelible mark of creativity and cultural richness.