Various Artists
Illes Balears del Folk al Pop (Blau CD400, 2004)
This compilation by Mallorca-based Produccions Blau features music by artists
from the Balearic Islands of Spain. There are four islands represented: Mallorca,
Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. The styles range from folk and singer songwriters
to pop and contemporary instrumental.Música Nostra is one of the better known folk ensembles. The group uses the
Balearic language, which is derived from Catalan. Other folk groups, like
Ibiza’s UC, plays instrumental music
led by a small flute. Biel Majoral is another well known folk group. On the song
“Es Burjons” they recreate traditional music with wind instruments. S’albaida
plays a fandango, which is a style widely extended in the mainland. Sis Som
performs an a capella song in Balearic.
Joan Bibiloni (a male musician, Joan is a male name in the Catalan-speaking
parts of Spain) is the best known artist from the region. He is a virtuoso
guitarist and has recorded contemporary instrumental music, jazz and other
styles. On this compilation he performs a song with a Brazilian feel,
accompanied by orchestral strings.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
