Quintet El Portal’s second album after New Trophy, also on CAM JAZZ. El Portal is a neighborhood in Miami, the town in which the five guys met as undergraduates, but it also means “doorway” in Spanish. And, judging from their talent, the quintet may have found its way to the high ranks of international jazz. This record sounds amazing, thanks to its definitely original blend of different, well-matched sounds. Ten tunes, all bearing Lem’s signature, which display striking instrumental expertise combined with a refined capacity for composition, arrangement and cohesion.

"A floating, psychedelic vibe fuels the metallic opening of 'Kernel' perhaps the most ambitious section of the album." 
DownBeat