The koto and shakuhachi are two Japanese musical instruments that produce mesmerizing and beautiful sounds. The koto is a plucked zither or harp that is…
Cherry Blossoms and Winter Cranes
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.
What a Ball!
Various Artists Big Blue Ball (Real World, 2008) For several years, starting in 1992, Peter Gabriel invited numerous world music artists to record at Real World…
Unforgettable Buena Vista Social Club
Buena Vista Social Club Buena Vista Social Club At Carnegie Hall (World Circuit/Nonesuch, 2008) In 1998, the Buena Vista Social Club gave an unforgettable and…
Scottish Folk Discoveries
Various Artists Scottish Folk at Its Best (ARC Music, 2008) The Scottish Folk at Its Best compilation includes a selection of some of the finest…
Let the Party Begin
In recent months, numerous world music compilations came out, many of which had party themes. Here is an overview of the latest anthologies. The…
Copenhagen New Location for WOMEX World Music Conference
WOMEX, the World Music Expo, announced today its next location – Copenhagen, Denmark – for a three-year residence from 2009 – 2011. After a total…
Tasty Sofrito
Plena Libre Plena Al Salsero (GM Musica, 2008) Puerto Rican band Plena Libre specializes in contemporary Afro-Puerto Rican plena and bomba. Plena Libre’s latest CD…
Tito’s Swinging Mambo
Tito Puente The Complete 78’s, Vol. 1 (Fania, 2008) Tito Puente was not only a great timbalero, but also an influential band leader during the…
Fascinating Buryatia
Badma Khanda – Mongolian Music from Buryatia (ARC Music, 2008) The story behind Badma Khanda is fascinating. The group is named after its lead vocalist…
Tales of Love and Laughter
Solas For Love and Laughter (Compass, 2007) There is no doubt that Solas is the most influential US-based Celtic band in North America. Solas has…