Mettal / Jazz EP

Released in 2021, the Mettal / Jazz EP (often associated with their Mettal EP sessions) represents a full-circle moment for Rodrigo y Gabriela, returning to the thrash metal roots of their youth in Mexico City. While the duo has always incorporated metal influences, this specific release focuses on long-form, highly technical covers of the 'Big Four' of thrash. The recording is characterized by its 'dry' production, eschewing reverb to highlight the percussive 'rasgueado' techniques and the sheer speed of their synchronized playing. Critics, including those at AllMusic, have noted the EP's ability to maintain the menacing atmosphere of the original tracks through purely rhythmic means. It stands as a testament to their evolution from street performers to global virtuosos who can command the complexity of Megadeth's 'Holy Wars' with nothing but two pieces of wood and six strings each.