Search - Various Artists :: Young Flamencos

A solid, but unspectacular compilation of " New Flamenco"

Enrique Torres | 04/26/1999

(3 out of 5 stars)

"While this CD contains works form such great bands and artists as Ketama, Pata Negra, and Aurora, overall it was rather tepid. Most of the songs, while solid, were unispiring. This is all the more suprising given the quality of the artists on this disc. i would recommend the "Nuevo Flamenco" disc over this compliation. I would recommend Jvenes Flameco mainly to fans of the aforementioned artists and not to the casual listener or the merely curious."

Is it still Flamenco?

Enrique Torres | San Diegotitlan, Califas | 11/16/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Compilations serve several purposes for me. I get a chance to hear various artists and decide who I like and eventually seek out a CD by the artist. I've had this CD since it's original release, 1990, and still enjoy it. For what it is worth, this is a variety of bands, all playing their own distinct styles of flamenco. The only groove that is constant is the flamenco guitar. The CD is an indicator of the push flamenco has taken in an attempt to have "rock" appeal for the global audience. While some non Spanish musicians are bringing elements of flamenco into their sound Spanish artists were busy branching out from their roots. The results for the featured Spanish artists is at times exciting yet uninspiring yet all the while fresh. I'm just not sure what is wrong with pure flamenco. The variety explored on this CD is worth a listen but hardly anything will make your hair stand up on your arms. Anyone who loves flamenco will like this compilation and quite possibly discover a "new" artist. For me it was Pepe Habichuela and his wonderful guitar, "Ketama" and their excursions into other genres, "Pata Negra" and their fusion that doesn't drift too far away. Most of the music on this sampler is very good but not excellent very often. A beautiful Spanish guitar, played from someone from Iberia is just without question a delight for the ears. I cannot get enough Spanish guitar and the variety here is worthwhile. New directions prior to the new mileniumn. These modern band of gypsy's are extensions of our global community. Where will it all end up? I hope they stay close to their roots. Some younster is probably playing guitar in Spain right now with the answer."