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(Filter Music/Shock)
Music is one of the very few things that can surpass language boundaries and invite us into different countries and cultures. This compilation is an invitation into the world of the artists featured; it emphasizes the importance of music’s role in the search for peace. It features two unmixed discs, the first disc titled ‘Woman’ and the second titled ‘Man’.
The Woman disc begins with some seductive Uruguayan / Argentinean lounge music. The illustrious woodwinds instruments and salsa-eque percussion of “Azulamento” by Rosanna & Zelia set the perfect mediteranrian vibe. “Rima Caribena” by Las Ondas Merteles adds funky yet smooth Spanish vocals. This is the point that the listener is either captivated, or completely turned off. It’s not dance music, it’s not breaks, it’s world music. From here we move into romantic territory; a single acoustic guitar and a single vocalist, so basic and pure, I’m reminded of quality Spanish films like “Talk To Her” and “Life’s a Bitch”. This feel continues as a Spanish flamenco guitar haunts the listeners ear drums. Traditional bongos and percussion with maracas and what sounds like bottle tops chattering create a relaxed tango feel, that continues through the middle of the compilation.
The latter stages of the Woman disc showcases an eclectic blend of world music, that most listeners have never heard before, unless you seek out world music, with a Spanish infusion. I’m sorry guys; liking ‘Latin house’ here doesn’t get you through. “Pirates” by Super Rail Band De Bamako explores beautiful layers; a strong male vocal (like gypsy kings) with dubbed out percussion and an extremely complex piano riff make this like nothing I’ve heard before. “Fatwords” by Smadj is seriously one of the most natural, pure and innate pieces of music I think I’ve ever heard. It features a slightly humming bassline, light and infrequent echoed piano and one of the most pure Spanish seductive vocal of all time.
The rest of the Woman side contain no less than a cocktail of vocal work spanning the funky, the quirky, the sultry, the sexy, the happy, the sad, and the expression. As is the purpose of the compilation the messages of all the artists shine through. Behind the words, the listeners are treated to a quality infusion traditional music crossed with electronic technology. On the menu are distorted Spanish guitars, vintage synth work, morphed percussion traditions and top-shelf kazoo skills. The ending track of the Woman disc titled “Elisa” by Jane Birkin is the perfect ending. The energy of the tune captures despair, hope and triumph of females all the world over. A magical ending.
The Man disc has a much more modern feel, achieved by the use of more electronic instruments which accompany the traditional instruments. The early stages of the Man disc comprise a strong African and Arabic feel. The latter stages showcase modern twists on traditional instruments and subject matter. The pick here is “Esperenza” by Daara J. The artist is from Senegal; he strays from the machismo and materialistic subjects matter so prominent in Africa’s rap scene. His track searches the more spiritual side of African rap music. The combination of a rap backbeat with traditional acoustic elements and heartfelt words successfully achieve this.
Another highlight is “Beleza” by Marcello. The tune is a modern spin on the classic tango rhythm. A superb mash of traditional instrumental elements with technology to complement. The final track and my favorites on the compilation is by Fela Kuti. Fela is a well-respected political and musical figure in his homeland of Nigeria. He’s running for presidency, fighting against corruption for a true independence of African spirit. His track is down tempo and smooth, whilst still maintaining an upbeat feel. He speaks to his people to open their eyes, the chanting of ‘Amen’ and hypnotic humming are the key to the tunes effectiveness.
A fury of technology injected world music, incorporating a myriad of languages, traditional instruments and viewpoints of those less heard in today’s society. We’re all the same really; different cultures make us diverse. Put it on, switch off, relax and Bon Voyage.
