Discover Gypsy Music with ARC Music (ARC Music EUCD 2578, 2015)
ARC frequently puts thin folk forms from different musical cultures on a more dense, Western foundation to acclimate world music neophytes to unfamiliar sub-genres more easily. This is not necessary and perhaps not possible with gypsy music. The instruments have their roles, developed over centuries within a very strong musical heritage, and no assistance is required. Gypsy music, in fact, is itself a foundation for much of our modern Western music. Gypsies travelled, often supporting themselves as entertainers, and what was applauded in Russia was incorporated into Russian music, in Hungary into Hungarian music, in Spain into that country’s tradition and so on.
One clearly hears familiar elements throughout this anthology and thinks, “Oh, that’s where that came from.” The listener receives a happy education. If any particular act stands out on this collection, it is … all of them. It is a strong and happy sound, overall, and one looks around as each song reaches crescendo in search of a dance partner.
Thank you, ARC, for preserving and sharing this beautifully chosen collection of Roma music.
Author: Arthur Shuey
Arthur has been reviewing music for publications since 1976 and began focusing almost exclusively on world music in 2012.
His musical background includes past presidencies of the Cape Fear Musicians Association and Blues Society of the Lower Cape Fear, founding membership in nine other blues societies, service on 17 music festival planning committees, two decades of teaching harmonica to individuals and groups, operating a small recording studio and performing solo and in combos for 30 years.
Arthur has written professionally since 1975, pieces ranging from short fiction to travel articles, humor to poetry, mainly for local and regional entertainment media. His blog,” Shuey’s World,” is featured at www.accesswilmington.com.
