By Irene Miranda Compán

Ida y Vuelta Ensemble live at the Union Chapel

“Passion for Life”, the best title I could find to define the band:
Ida y Vuelta Ensemble. An emerging flamenco-fusion band based in London and created by experienced Spanish and Italian musicians.

Ida y Vuelta Ensemble performance — Photo: Cath Dupuy

Ida y Vuelta Ensemble members are: Lourdes Fernández (Flamenco dancer), Andrés García (Spanish guitar player), Ayoze de Alejandro (Percussionist), Gianni Bocarino (Pianist) and Vincenzo Fratelli (Harmonica player).

On Saturday the 31st of May, two members of the Videoplugger team (Guglielmo with the camera and I) went to film Ida y Vuelta Ensemble live at the Union Chapel, one of the most gorgeous venues in London.

The Union Chapel is an architectural treasure from 1806, that’s home to a church and an award winning venue-voted as Time Out London’s Best Live Music Venue 2002 and 2012. It has hosted all kinds of performers including Tom Jones, Philip Glass and Stewart Lee.

Ida y Vuelta Ensemble live at the Union Chapel started at the unusual time of 12 pm, and I would like to share with you a curious anecdote! As you can imagine, some people from the audience were still a bit sleepy with their cups of tea and coffee held in their hands in the relaxing atmosphere of the church. But as soon as the band started, along with the stunning sounds of the dancer’s footwork, the atmosphere completely changed! The hair on my arms stood on end, the band’s adrenaline beat out into the audience and even a child excited for the show started screaming, consequently making everybody smile.

Suddenly, the environment became very “warm” and Ida y Vuelta Ensemble made all of us fly and experience the Southern Mediterranean flavours, odours, colours and landscapes.

Their repertoire mixed by their own compositions and some famous songs like “Spain” by Chick Corea was certainly an amazing experience to listen to. It was almost impossible sitting on the bench without clapping or tapping along to the beat with your foot.

After watching Ida y Vuelta Ensemble live at the Union Chapel, the rhythm was still in our bodies and the only thing you desired, apart from flying to Spain, was just to eat some tapas and drink a “caña”. Which we did! 😉

Do not miss the opportunity to see this fantastic band in upcoming events. Their positive energy will embrace you!