I can’t exactly recall now how or when I first came across Ramon Montagner. But I believe it was during the Covid lockdown, when I was working my way through Stick Control for the second time.
It was around then that I first saw his awesome command of the open/closed push/pull single-handed (single stick) techniques. He also does that sweeping lateral thing I saw Tutty Moreno doing, with Joyce, many moons ago.
But what’s really blowing my gourd to smithereens is discovering his ensemble playing. As one would expect, the music is a vehicle for his playing, and that includes his more jaw-dropping stuff. But what I really dig the most, is that it’s also terrifically soulful groovy music.
It’s stuff I would choose to listen to. Not just for the chops. But for the harmonies, melodies, the other soloists, and the group interplay. I really hope they bring this musical magic to the UK!
In just one word? Magnificent.
Oh, and he’s so much my kind of guy; drumming in front of a wall of books! Rather like me in my little studio! Only with a little more technique…