Music is what brings people together, from all over the world, all cultures connect on the basis of music. There is a cross-cultural importance of listening to music, as many genres of music and musical performances are socially and culturally situated. It is important to keep an open mind of the various genres displayed across the globe. Here is a short review on 6/12 International albums from all over.
Wede Harer Guzo (1978)
Taking us back to the 70’s, Hailu Mergia & Dahlak Band present the prolific age of Ethiopian Jazz. The sense of warmth conveyed through this album along with the groove of Amharic origin concocts the perfect album straight from the Horn of Africa. “This album was produced and recorded on a single cassette tape at the Ghion Hotel in Addis Ababa, during a period of military-imposed curfews when clubs had to stay jammin ‘until sunrise because people weren’t allowed on the streets at night”, says Brian Shimkovitz of the record label Awesome Tapes From Africa. My favorite song would be, “Embuwa Bey Lamitu”, because of the irresistible bass-groove and the gospel-like repeated chants.
Buena Vista Social Club (1997)
In my opinion, one of the greatest albums to be recorded, Buena Vista Social Club, is nothing short from perfect. Presenting traditional Cuban sounds, and the feel of pre-revolutionary Cuba, there is a sense of life and character throughout this album. From traditional styles like Boleros to Guajira, the overall Cuban Jazz makes for a seamless groove that feels as though you could have been at the Buena Vista Social Club in Havana. I think that there is a sense of community and comfort that comes with this album. I do think that considering the history of Cuba, and the producer of the group, Ry Cooder, there is a sense of ideological product. There is a lack of representation for the Cuban experience and the image it evokes, as there is a false representation and commodification. Overall, I do feel this album is beautiful and a very important aspect to Cuban music.
98.12.2898.12.28 Otokotachi no Wakare (1998)
A popular underground dream pop band from Japan, this Fishman’s album presents the perfect lively set of tracks, recorded live at their final concert. Gaining popularity outside of Japan due to the internet, a lot of people characterize this album as hypnotic, kaleidoscopic, neo-psychedelia. An asset to their work is their mixing, which allows for a cathedral-esque reverb, with its achingly nostalgic keyboard sequences. It’s almost meditative, somber and relates to how the seasons must end and the passing of time.
Habibi Funk: An Eclectic Selection of Music from the Arab World (Habibi Funk 007) (2017)
This fun and colorful album from the Habibi Funk label plays with all sorts of sounds throughout the Middle East and North Africa region. Appealing to Western audiences, Habibi Funk incorporates traces of soul, R&B, rock and smooth disco, along with many other jazzy sounds. Undoubtedly the most popular song from the album “Ayonha”, is riddled with catchiness and is perfect for those wanting an uplifting listen. My favorite song from this album that I’ve found myself creating a sense of nostalgia for is definitely, “Bossa” by Ahmed Malek, an Algerian musician and composer.
Almendra (1969)
One of the most beloved melancholic rock albums from Argentina, brims with poetry and intriguing ideas from the creative mind of Luis Alberto Spinetta. The hit song, “Muchacha Ojos De Papel”, tells the story of two young lovers, and the fleeting nature of youth. The singer attempts to hold onto the moment and capture the essence of the girl before time slips away, creating the perfect poetic ballad. The raw early sound of Spinetta allows for an emotion shifting experience.
Arthur Verocai (1972)
Thanks Brazil! The self-titled album of Arthur Verocai gained more attraction in the 21st century because of the sampling that producer Madlib and MF DOOM unearthed. A greatly cinematographic album that illustrates a fresh nostalgic feeling. My favorite song definitely would be, Dedicada A Ella.
