November 14, 2008

¡Merengue!

There is merengue all over the Caribbean, but its roots lie in the Dominican Republic. And it doesn't get much rootsier than on this classic among classics of the merengue music. Recorded 'in the field' in 1977, this album just jumps with joy and energy.

El Ciego de Nagua (plenty of videos on YouTube) has two tracks on this lp. And I just love the accordion merengues of La Macana and Nicolas Gutierres and his group, who unfortunately remain untraceable outside of these recordings. But my favorite tracks are the two from the "Grupo de Bachata" (is that the name or what they are?).
No accordion, but some great guitar.

LLST 7351

1 comment:

avocado kid said...

thanks again, a hundred times, for all the amazing rare treats you offer up. they are very much enjoyed and appreciated!!! The old videos are particularly incredible...