Ensayo de un Desaparecido cover

Ensayo de un Desaparecido

Omar Rodríguez-López · 2017

37 min · 10 tracks · progressive rock

A haunting blend of progressive rock and experimental soundscapes envelops the listener in a dreamlike narrative journey.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Un abismo bendito — This track features a compelling blend of intricate guitar work and atmospheric textures that exemplify Rodríguez-López's unique sonic vision. Its dynamic shifts create a captivating listening experience that encapsulates the essence of the album.
  • →
    El arte de fracasar — With its rich harmonic layers and poignant melodies, this track stands out for its emotional depth, reflecting themes of struggle and resilience that resonate throughout the album.
  • →
    Deseos para quemar — This song showcases an eclectic mix of rhythms and styles, with a driving energy that captures the spirit of experimentation inherent in Rodríguez-López's work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate arrangements and genre-blending create a unique sound, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.

What we noticed

  • The album features extended tracks, with several exceeding six minutes, allowing for gradual development of themes and motifs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing with emotional peaks
  • introspective melodies for deep reflection
  • haunting soundscapes for solitude
  • short tracks for focused listening

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, energetic music
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on February 24, 2017, 'Ensayo de un Desaparecido' marked Omar Rodríguez-López's return to solo work after several collaborative projects. This album follows his involvement in the critically acclaimed band The Mars Volta and showcases his distinctive approach to composition outside of a band context.
Stylistic neighbors
The Mars Volta· King Crimson· Porcupine Tree

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Nocturna luz 3:28
  • 2 Nubes sin agua 3:42
  • 3 Recuerdos 2:54
  • 4 Un abismo bendito 5:21
  • 5 El arte de fracasar 3:41
  • 6 Ojos negros 4:01
  • 7 Deseos para quemar 4:28
  • 8 Vidrio de la fe 4:47
  • 9 Besos secretos 2:09
  • 10 La orilla 2:36

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata