There may be better compilations of merengue and better selections of bachata, but there are none that showcase them together so brilliantly in such a contemporary setting than this installment in the Rough Guide series. These joyous and infectious sounds from the Dominican Republic are full of the feel of the region's dancehalls and street dances. Merengue has been the constant pulse of innovation in popular music from the Dominican Republic. New waves and traditions sprout almost daily in the streets, cafes, gas stations, ...
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There may be better compilations of merengue and better selections of bachata, but there are none that showcase them together so brilliantly in such a contemporary setting than this installment in the Rough Guide series. These joyous and infectious sounds from the Dominican Republic are full of the feel of the region's dancehalls and street dances. Merengue has been the constant pulse of innovation in popular music from the Dominican Republic. New waves and traditions sprout almost daily in the streets, cafes, gas stations, basements, bars, and even drugstores of the country. Here are some of that music's biggest stars highlighting its various traditions: The slick, stylish radio merengue of Antony Santos is contrasted with the folksier, more rudimentary dance music of Frank Reyes and the harder-edged, soulful style of Eddy Herrera, whose voice dominates the music. The root of merengue is bachata, a deeply rhythmic music imported to the Dominican Republic from the Caribbean. Here, bachata is showcased in its own evolving style, from historical folk music to an innovative form of popular music in the hands of younger singers, composers, and musicians who have rediscovered its passion and power. On this collection, Luis Vargas offers the humorous, rural side of the music, while Nelson Roig offers its poetic possibilities complete with intoxicating arpeggiated guitars and soft, seductive rhythms that underlie the music's emotion. There are also pop barachas that made the charts along with the merengue hits. One of the barachas powerhouses in the pop world is Raulin Rodriguez, who registered hits all over Latin America throughout the '90s and into the 21st century. The liner notes include the usual authoritative essay on both the musical forms and their attendant rhythms, as well as detailed although brief bios describing all the performers and the sources of their contributions. Cooler than almost anything on the Luaka Bop label, this is the only dance music record you need for a steamy Saturday night. Play it at a party when the punch bowl has been drained once and see what happens. ~ Thom Jurek, Rovi
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Good. This item has very light surface scratches that do not affect the use of the disc/s. This is a USED item and case may have light wear. All items unless otherwise noted will include disc, case, and artwork. Codes have been used. Other contents such as booklets may vary, please inquire for details. All items ship Monday-Friday within 2-3 business days.
