Search - Various Artists :: World Is Shaking: Cubanismo Congo 1954-55

My world has been shaken!

Josh Z. Bonder | Toronto | 10/31/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've had this excellent CD for sometime, but wanted to give it sufficient time to sink in before I wrote a review for it. I had also hoped that the added time would somehow provide me with the vocabulary needed to discuss the merits and special moments of this collection.



While the music has continued to grow on me, time has not sufficiently extended my vocabulary to adequately describe this disc. That said, nobody else has reviewed it yet, and for those of you who remain curious but hesitant, it's time I told you what I can about this gem.



Honest Jon's just might be my new favourite record label, and it's because of albums like this: Discs focussing on a particular time and place, and doing it very very well. They choose music that is rare and hard to find, that is certainly of historical value, and yet remains highly listenable and even danceable! This collection epitomizes those traits, and comes out a winner for doing so. The music is upbeat, and is a potent combination of latin, jazz, and of course, Congolese music. At times it can also sound akin to highlife and some Nigerian musics from this time. That said, it truly is a unique combination, where electric guitars and saxophones meet more traditional drums, kazoos and balafons. The mix is exciting, innovative, and would lead to the development of the extremely popular Congolese Rhumba.



As I listen now and write, I am really at a loss for words to describe this music any more, except to say that it is to me the epitome of "feel good music", and can tempt even those with two left feet to try and cut a rug. For any fans of vintage african music, other Honest Jon's collections, musical historians, or just those looking for feel good music, you can't go wrong here. Hear it for yourself, perhaps in your five star review you'll find the words that have been so elusive to me!"