This week's theme for Sound Travels has been a form of Spanish music known by many names. Rumba, Spanish Rumba, Catalan Rumba, Rumba Gitana and Rumba Flamenca all really refer to a style we lump into one term called flamenco. For more, check the week's previous entries for the intricacies. Today was kind of a summation of the sound.
For the most part, what I played today were absolute classics of the style. From the Catalan's famous Gipsy Kings and their global hit "Bamboleo" to the now sound of Sabor de Gracia (also Catalyud). Also, the Catalonian King of Flamenco Nuevo Camaron de la Isla, whose album La Leyenda del Tiempo, has been favorably compared to the Beatles' classic Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Band for the way it set a new standard for the genre. Also, got a nice cut from Los Martinos and a brand new cut from Mexico City's Rodrigo y Gabriela, perhaps the biggest modern commercial success, with another smokin' jam from their brand new album Area 52. Rodrigo y Gabriela by the way will be at The Riverside Theater on April 13th in Milwaukee's premier flamenco event of the year!
Gipsy Kings "Bamboleo" Gipsy Kings
Sabor De Gracia "Sientolo" Sabor Pa'rato
Camaron de la Isla "La Tarara" La Leyenda del Tiempo
Los Martinos "Cuidao" Rumba Flamenca
Rodrigo y Gabriela "Diablo Rojo" Area 52
If you want to see a cinematic side to the genre, you may want to check out the excellent film Carlos Saura made, appropriately titled Flamenco. It's free on youtube...