For his first solo album since the early 90s, Tuxedomoon’s co-leader delivers a collection of hypnotic songs, a sort of “song cycle” nourished by his life in Mexico, where he has resided for many years. “El Hombre Invisible” is an intimate album, centered on Steven Brown's emblematic voice, melodies, and lyrics, carried by elegant arrangements for guitar, bass, and occasional brass. As well as, of course, Mr. Brown's characteristic piano, saxophone, and clarinet playing. The album's atmosphere and lyrics reflect some of Steven Brown's experiences and impressions gathered during his twenty-eight years in Mexico. These include earthquakes, a kidnapping, frequenting the Zapatistas of Chiapas, an acute awareness of the - still omnipresent - traces of the Spanish conquest five centuries ago and the deleterious effects of the 'Most Dangerous Book in the World' (to quote the chorus of one of the songs), namely the one that guided the conquistadors. The album also draws on Steven's adventures as a local cultural activist, and his unwavering love for the beauty of nature and the people of Oaxaca, his adopted city. "El Hombre Invisible" was recorded there, with the participation of local musicians, including Lila Downs, who sings a duet with Steven on the song "Familias Ricas". Other guests make an appearance: Luc van Lieshout (Tuxedomoon) on trumpet and Chris Haskett (ex-Rollins Band) on guitar. The songs were mixed in Berlin by Steven's old friend and musical accomplice, Nikolas Klau.
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