Press
The Austin Music Minute
Iram Reyes: “Awaken the Heart” (ft. Jake Lloyd, Yasi Baby, JaRon Marshall, and Eric Gonzalez)
The Austin Music Minute‘s introduction to the artistry of Iram Reyes began with Ex Romantika. As band leader and trumpet player, Reyes turned up the horns and ignited the Latin funk fire on their multiple releases, including the band’s first LP, Latin Funk Konnection. They also drew national attention with their NPR All Songs Considered Tiny Desk Concert performance of “Grand Candela,” named after the towering memorial in El Paso, TX honoring the victims of a 2019 mass shooting at a local Walmart.
These days, Reyes continues his work as a solo artist, producer, engineer and proprietor of Bad Hombre Studios. Following a handful of solo releases including “Waves” and “Awaken the Heart” (featured on today’s AMM), there are plans for a solo album release sometime this fall. The all-star list of guest artists includes frequent contributors like Jake Lloyd, Daniel Fears, JaRon Marshall, PhonSOUL, Mike Melinoe, and SICK ThoTS, as well as flutist Margery Lucio and saxophonist Eric Gonzalez.
Imagine a steady stream of golden butter slowly dripping off a delicate hand. Ex Romantika frontman Iram Reyes plays the producer role here, alongside JaRon Marshall and Eric Gonzalez, laying down an understated, flute-studded groove that could top any “study beats” playlist. Reyes takes that self-sustaining bed to another level with the vocals of Jake Lloyd and Yasi Baby, whose verses keep the song pulsing and flowing respectfully. “Awaken the Heart” works as well for a drive around town as it does setting the mood for your next date.
Iram Reyes, the Austin-based trumpet player, producer, and mixing engineer, has released his latest single, “Misunderstood,” featuring Daniel Fears and Tribe Mafia. The track is a perfect example of how Reyes has managed to blend different styles of music into a seamless composition that hits all the right notes.
The song’s theme revolves around the difficulties that can arise when communication fails in a relationship, leading to misunderstandings and, ultimately, the end of the relationship. Despite the melancholy subject, the instrumental is upbeat and fun, giving listeners hope that life continues.
Featuring Daniel Fears and Tribe Mafia, two of the most prominent artists in the Austin music scene, “Misunderstood” is a must-listen for anyone looking for a fresh and exciting sound. Reyes’ production skills are evident throughout the track, showcasing his talent as a producer and mixing engineer.
Overall, “Misunderstood” is a beautiful composition that showcases Reyes’ musical range and the immense talent of the featured artists. We can’t wait to see what Reyes has in store for us with his upcoming solo album.
Trumpeter, and producer, Iram Reyes comes to us with a beautiful work in his new musical endeavor, betting on the hip-hop line as the flagship of his recent work.
Awaken The Heart has the support of JaRon Marshall and Jake Lloyd on the front lines to decorate and give a more than special shine to this release that already arrives with great airs with great instrumental arrangements that form a rhythmic carpet for masterful voices can sing their poetry parading a huge talent in vocal harmonies that are of a unique, enviable perfection and that will please, in full, all the admirers of a music made in a legitimate and very original way.
“Awaken the Heart” is a heartfelt collaboration between trumpet player/producer Iram Reyes, rapper Jake Lloyd, singer Yasi Baby, and Keyboardist JaRon Marshall. The result is a brilliant mix of R&B and hip-hop in its purest form. From the soulful, dreamy textures and grooves and profound lyricism that tackle the ups and downs of this treacherous music industry. Jake shares his own experiences and while the hope for success is real, it’s not a walk in the park. Yasi Baby provides a solid heartwarming hook as well and helps add that extra soulful touch to the track.
The journey to success is everything but rosy. For artists, they have to face a myriad of challenges.
An early 2022 single by Texas-native trumpeter and producer Iram Reyes sees featured artists Jake Lloyd and Yasi Baby remind us the value of staying positive and appreciating the little blessings. The heartfelt song is named “Awaken The Heart”.
Jake’s thoughtful verses and Yasi’s rousing chorus find warm company in form of the track’s smooth soulful instrumentation. In creating the track, Iram was supported JaRon Marshall (who played synth and keys) and Eric Gonzalez.
— Aipate
