Mastretta

Mastretta is the project of Spanish composer and multi-instrumentalist Nacho Mastretta, a pivotal figure in the Spanish independent scene of the late 1990s and 2000s. Emerging from the Subterfuge Records stable, Mastretta carved out a unique niche that bridged the gap between the burgeoning 'lounge' revival and serious chamber composition.

His sound identity is defined by a 'Mediterranean Nu-Jazz' aesthetic, characterized by the use of clarinet, accordion, and piano to create melodic, narrative-driven instrumentals. His career arc saw him move from the pop-inflected 'Las manos de Orlac' to becoming a sought-after film scorer and fashion show composer, notably for Jesús del Pozo. Critically, he is lauded for 'Melodías de rayos-X', which redefined Spanish instrumental music by blending electronic textures with traditional acoustic arrangements. His influence web connects the whimsical side of Penguin Cafe Orchestra with the cinematic flair of Nino Rota, while maintaining a distinctly Iberian sense of rhythm and melody.