Global Soul
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (21 January, 2003)
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Reviews (8)

Great CD -- check out Cameroonian songtress Kaïssa!
This a great CD I picked up after hearing Kaïssa's Duala version of 'Superstar' from Jazzhole's "Circle of the Sun" album on WERS in Boston. Kaïssa is an immensely talented singer from Cameroon working and performing in New York, sometimes with Jazzhole, sometimes solo. Leave it to Putamayo to compile such a diverse collection of amazing, independent artists! Don't miss this one!

EXCELLENT
The cd is perfect and is an excellent way to learn about artist from other countries.

Soulful Globe
I enjoy this cd very much and listen to it often. It's an easy listen and even though I do not speak the languages, the groove is undeniably universal and powerful. I plan to share this as presents for family all over, including Australia, Jamaica, England.....this music sends me places I haven't been and brings back rhythmic memories of many places I have. ... Read more

Asin: B00007G789
Sales Rank: 43969
Subjects:  1. Brazilian Pop    2. Hip-Hop    3. Int'l & World Music    4. Neo-Soul    5. Pop    6. Urban    7. V/a Compilations    8. Worldbeat   

Gardens of Eden
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (13 March, 2001)
list price: $16.98
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Editorial Review

Gardens of Eden is a multidimensional tool of anthology guaranteed to whisk even the most hardcore urbanites into the folds of Shangri-la. This collection of music from around the world is built around the theme of paradise on earth; the highly detailed liner notes include an overview of environmental organizations pledged to preserve vanishing resources. The subdued, lighthearted music is constructed around the soft caress of acoustic guitar, ukulele, African kora, Polynesian drums, Indian tabla, and sitar. Exceptional tracks include Ana Rita Simonka's unique fusion of bossa nova and Indian classical music, "Mais Filhos de Gandhi," and Keola Beamer's soothing, oceanic "Elepaio Slack Key." --Leslie R. Marini ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Fantastic collection of music from global paradises!
I picked up a copy of "Gardens of Eden" for ...(very little). I couldn't resist the price and the countries represented: Hawaii, New Zealand, Tibet, India, Brazil. I had not heard of the majority of the artists but all offered traditional music from their homelands.

I especially liked "Mais Filhos de Gandhi," which blended Brazilian rhythms with classical Indian music, and "Happiness Is" by Tibetan songbird Yungchen Lhamo, which blends guitar, fiddle, whistles, and ethereal vocals, sounding at first more like Celtic music, but is achingly beautiful, with a message of finding a path and following it.

All in all this is an excellent, affordable compliation that represents artists from lesser-known musical countries: Guinea, Madagascar, the California wilderness of Big Sur, New Zealand, and Tibet. Very beautiful songs take you away to different visions of the Garden of Eden: lush, tropical sonic paradises to enjoy after a hectic day.

It whisks you back
No matter what Garden of Eden you have in mind, this is the music to take you there.

We were traveling down Rt. 1 in California and stopped in Big Sur.At one of the local shops, I heard the ever familiar Putumayo music and fell into a conversation with the store owner over our mutual appreciation for the Putumayo label.She then brought to my attention that her group was featured on Gardens of Eden.Naturally, we bought it.

The next day, when traveling through the misted mountain road, we were entralled by the way the music somehow choregraphed the scenery - or was it the other way around?All I know is that I will forever remember driving in the convertible, rounding each bend to music that swept away all of our cares and concerns.

I highly recommend this disk.

World music at its best
What a wonderful cd. The music is terrific, and is a great introduction to artists that you would probably never hear of if not for Putamayo. Where else can you find such diverse songs like this album has. Songs from such countries as Papua New Guinea, Brazil, India, Tibet, and Hawaii to name a few. And the packaging is terrific too. In depth articles on each artist and the song they perform, as well as photos of the artists. I really recommend this album to anyone who would like to broaden their musical horizons a little. ... Read more

Asin: B000059LDR
Subjects:  1. Brazil    2. Costa Rica    3. Ethnic    4. Guinea    5. Hawaii    6. India    7. Int'l & World Music    8. Madagascar    9. New Guinea    10. New Zealand    11. Pop    12. Tibet    13. United States of America    14. Worldbeat   

Music from the Coffee Lands, Vol. II
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (09 October, 2001)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $13.99
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Editorial Review

Fortunately for the Putumayo label, the nations that grow coffee alsoproduce some of the best music on the planet. Otherwise, we might have somethingas unattractive as Songs from the Linseed-Oil-Processing Countriesinstead of this savory disc. Marketing devices aside, there is undeniableromance to a cup of fine coffee, and compiler Jacob Edgar superbly captures thatmild but heady exotica in songs from Central and South America, Africa, andAsia. The Dominican Republic's Titico y Los Caracoles del Amargue brew a spicymug of bachata with popping guitar lines and conch-shell "trumpet" parts.Mexico's Correo Aero bring a lush harp lead and a definite high-altitude feel tothe Venezuelan traditional song "Fiesta Lianera."Ex-3 Mustaphas 3 bass manand vocalist Sabah Habbas Mustapha joins forces with Java's Jugala All-Stars fora cosmopolitan romp blending Sudanese instruments (including the haunting sulingflute) and Congolese bass and drum patterns. Though not well known forcaffeinated drinks, Martinique enjoys fame for its Creole pop. Wielding histrademark banjo, Martinican Kali hitches a gentle reggae bounce to localsensibilities on "Monte la Rivie," a song about finding the source of the riverof life. Nicely documented with liner notes that even contain coffee drinkrecipes, Music from the Coffee Lands II is good to the last cut. --BobTarte ... Read more

Reviews (2)

My absolute favorite Putumayo Cd!
I admit I am new to discovering world music. I got very interested in it this year, because I was so bored and uninspired by today's music. So, now I have discovered the Putumayo and Rough Guide series and I love them both! I own 9 Putumayo CDs, but actually have listened to 24.This one is my absolute favorite!! No, I don't even drink coffee! I bought this based on sampling some of the tracks on Amazon.com. This is overall a very mellow, relaxing Cd. Ceumar, from Brazil, sings, "Dindinha," the most beautiful bossa nova tune. Another unbelievably moving bossa nova tune is "Quem e Muito Querido a Mim," By Geraldo Azevedo. Gigi, the Ethiopian female singer is becoming a huge star, with her newest Cd. Listen to the tune, "Guramayle," and you will see why! Another track that moves me to pieces is "Nge Na Munu," by Denis Tshibayi of the Congo. He strays away from the popular dance genre of music, Congolese Soukous on this track, and its absolutely delightful! Some of the more upbeat numbers are by Kali of Martinique; and Emeline Michel of Haiti. Those tunes will definitely make you move your feet. Kali, A zouk popstar, is featured on five of the Putumayo cds and I absolutely love what he does. Emeline Michel, is known as "The Queen Of Creole Song." If you discover more of her music, like I have- you will know why!! She has such a beautiful voice and sings an inspiring tribute to mothers, on "Moso Manman." This Cd has music from the Caribbean, Africa, Latin America and Indonesia. I hope you'll pick it up! Its a real winner!

Definitely one to keep
Amazingly well compiled songs..match the Vol I. I like this a little better given the diversity. But a great roadtrip or Sunday morning tune. Can't wait for Vol III! ... Read more

Asin: B00005ONNT
Subjects:  1. Int'l & World Music    2. Pan-Global    3. Pop    4. Worldbeat   

A Jewish Odyssey
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (26 September, 2000)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $15.98
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Editorial Review

The diversity of modern Jewish music is a result of centuries of hard traveling and cultural interaction. The secular and religious sounds of the Diaspora now embrace everything from European memories to the Latin experience to folk and modern pop styles from the Middle East. For example, the jazzy pathos of klezmer music reflects shtetl (village) life in Russia and Poland during the early 20th century, while the Arabic-tinged Sephardic repertoire dates from medieval times and then back to Sinai. This thoughtfully assembled sampler covers the major roots and branches plus some bonus oddities. Among the stand-outs are Israeli folk singer Chava Alberstein singing with The Klezmatics, a love song from the late Yemenite chanteuse Ofra Haza, and pianist Uri Caine's avant-garde treatment of a 13th-century Moroccan text. The American ex-hippie Uzca, who sings in an imaginary language, is in a class of his own. --Christina Roden ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Spiritually uplifting!
I make sure to listen to this CD at least once a week -- it helps to keep my spirits up in this crazy world. Every single friend for whom I have played"A Jewish Odyssey"has immediately purchased it! You don't have to be Jewish to love this eclectic and stirring collection of music from around the globe.

Get Your Feet Moving!!!
You don't have to understand Yiddish to appreciate this collection of Jewish music from around the world.As some of the literature suggests, while Jewish music is extremely varied and clear boundaries can be difficult to define, there are three main categories. "Ashkenazi" includes European styles such as klezmer; "Sephardic" is primarily the music of Jews from the Mediterranean including Spain, Portugal, North Africa, Greece, and Turkey; "Mizrahi" is the music of Jewish communities which were based for thousands of years in Arabic countries, and of course, there is also Israeli popular music, which incorporates all of these styles as well as Western pop and folk music.

This CD has many of these styles, and you will hear selections from Israel/USA, United Kingdom, Italy, Turkey, Chile/Cuba, Canada, and Brazil, to just mention a few.

I love this album, and it gets my feet thumping, and I want to dance, dance, and dance.There are also the quieter melodies, albeit somewhat melancholic, but ranging from intensity to intensity.

A wonderful collection.Now if I can only learn the language.

A wonderful collection
I am not Jewish, but you don't have to be to enjoy these songs. This album happens to be one of my favourites of the Putumayo releases. A couple of the songs were instantly familiar to me even though I thought I knew none of the songs when I bought this album. Each and every song on here is wonderful...some are traditional folk songs while others are newer compositions. The 23 page booklet includes a 3 page history of Jewish music, and each artist has a page about them, including a photograph. I highly recommend this album to just about everyone. My husband is Arabic and he too loves these songs. Music truly is borderless. ... Read more

Asin: B00004X0KU
Subjects:  1. Int'l & World Music    2. Jewish    3. Jewish Music    4. Klezmer    5. Pop   

African Odyssey
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (11 September, 2001)
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Reviews (5)

Rich Diversity of Music and Instruments
Putumayo is a great vehicle for touring the world -- you can do it from the comfort of your own home by way of some incredible music. This particular disc is an enchanting and rhythmic look at Africa and its many different musical styles. According to the accompanying and extremely informative booklet, Africa is home to over 50 countries, 1,000 different languages, and 3,000 different tribes. That would make this disc a brief glimpse of all Africa has to offer in the music world, even though it is a very comprehensive sampling - ten songs from seven different countries.

Many cultures have influenced the music of Africa over the years, adding to a rich diversity of both music and the instruments with which to play music. The music found here is as beautiful and untamable as the African landscape - showing the strong unbreakable spirit of a strong, enduring, and culturally rich people. As well as containing two previously unreleased tracks of known artists, this disc also contains music of people that have never been heard outside of their marketing areas before. A bona fide treasure to care for and enjoy.

Fundo Di Matu is sung in Crioulo, which is a blend of African languages local to the Guinea Bissau and Portuguese, which is the main language of Guinea Bissau. Manuel Leal Emidio Costa, or Manecas Costa, first released this song on his album of the same name in 1999. Fundo Di Matu means Deep in the Forest and the rhythms of this piece will have you swaying and moving to the music before you realize what has happened, as Manecas' emotion laden lyrics dance around the melody.

Les Go is local slang along the Ivory Coast for "The Girls." This group is fronted by not one, but three young women who are a part of something so much larger - the L'Ensemble Koteba d'Abidjan. The famed dance/ theatre/ music company which was established in the city of Abidjan in order to preserve the Mandingo culture. The director of this school brought the three girls together, and now they mix their cultural music with popular Western music to bring about their own unique and most definitely unique sound. The lyrics of this piece are in Bambara, the language of Mali. In this track can be heard the n'goni (a four stringed lute-like instrument), Malian flutes, drums, and even some modern studio effects. The end result is a stunning and flavourful almost pop sounding track.

Ke Cu Minino Na Tchora is another interesting piece with a definite Reggae influence. The lyrics are completely at odds with the upbeat, chipper melody. The electric guitar has a bit of a spotlight, dancing all about the drum beat and bringing a smile - until you read the lyrics, that is. The Criolu lyrics describe the pain and suffering which comes with war, and focuses on the children thus affected. Bidinte has a strong love for music, according to the liner notes he even changed his religion to Catholic so that he could play the priests guitar! Incredible spirit and drive are combined with some serious talent where this young man is concerned. I hope to hear more of his work in time.

Not only is this a great way to expose yourself to African music, it is a great dance disc. The rhythms are very strong and lend themselves well to such strenuous activity. All of the artists featured on this disc are talented and have something worthwhile to say - this is music with meaning and a deep regard for life.

Review Original Posted at LinearReflections.com

Excellent African Experience
After traveling around Africa for a summer years ago, I was eager to bring the musical sounds of the trip into my home.Each of these songs is so luscious, full of energy and beauty.Even someone who has never traveled to these vibrant lands can appreciate the diversity of each track, all of which are guaranteed to get you dancing and leave a smile on your face.I've not been back to Africa for five years, but I find myself reaching for this cd all the time, even for teaching yoga.

Another AfricanCompilation from Putumayo
This is an excellent collection of African music, gathered from across the continent, by Putumayo, one of the leading names in world music. Unlike many other African compilations, this one focuses primarily one Africa's vibrant, and yet, oft overlooked, aucoustic music traditions, and I must admit, even with my familiarity with African music, I was still blown away. The selections on here are pretty good, considering the sheer diversity of African musicians. Some of you may be familiar with artists like Tuku and Habib Koite, and needless to say, their contributions are excellent, nothing less than one would expect from artists of their integrity. We also get an attempt by Les Go to blend traditional Cote d'Ivorie music with moden pop, a reggae influenced number from Doctor King'esi, a folksy South African song from Aura Msimang, and a song by Seydu featuring the use of the Mbira (thumb piano). Towards the end of the CD, Putumayo seems to lean very heavily towards the traditions of Mali, which many of you should be familar with. Much of the music features an ephemeral, soulful aspect. However, theres no mistaking this music for anything but African. ... Read more

Asin: B00005NVK0
Sales Rank: 48191
Subjects:  1. Africa    2. Cape Verde    3. Guinea    4. Int'l & World Music    5. Ivory Coast    6. Kenya    7. Mali    8. Pop    9. Sierra Leone    10. South Africa    11. Zimbabwe   

Caribbean Party
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (22 July, 1997)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $14.99
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Editorial Review

The Caribbean is home to a string of tourism-friendly island nations and some of the world's most amazing music. Along with lush vegetation, sugar-sand beaches, and spicy food, each island is defined by its local sound, which remains fairly consistent whether the lyrics deal with partying, courtship, or social protest. This set is devoted to dance-oriented Haitian compas, Jamaican reggae, zouk from the French Antilles, and Trinidadian calypso's faster and more rhythmically intense descendant, soca (from SOul-CAlypso). The Martinican star Kali's "L'Histoire de Zouk" tells the tale via snippets from the past, while his neighbor Eric Virgal's hit, "Pa Fe Mwen La Pen," is a gooey romantic ballad. Krosfyah ups the ante with "Pump Me Up," a sassy carnival anthem that provides an enjoyable contrast to the low-down, earthy swing of Bunny Wailer's "Roots, Rock Reggae," and the bawdy double-entendres of Coalishun's "Ice Cream." --Christina Roden ... Read more

Reviews (9)

???????
This was my moms cd when she went to the bahams,but it's probably very popular at the bahamas.My mom does'nt listen to it alot and I don't either.So,I guess it is ok,but if you hate this kind of music you will not like it.That's all.

Not What I Was Hoping For
Based on the reviews I was looking for a really "happy" CD.I was disappointed.It's not that the music was bad - just not as glorious as some of the reviews made it sound.

Irresistible dance music
This is a wonderful album that will put you in a dancing mood. An instant pick-u-up. This is zouk, soca and reggae music from Martinique, Barbados, Haiti and Jamaica. This album, like most of the Putumayo releases, not only has well known artists such as Bunny Wailer and Arrow, but also little known artists as well. It is a great place to begin for someone who wishes to explore Caribbean music. Every song on here is irresistible and will make you wish you were in the Caribbean. The 15 page booklet contains information on each artist and the song they perform. ... Read more

Asin: B000003EK6
Subjects:  1. Caribbean    2. Folklore    3. Int'l & World Music    4. Pop   

Jamaica
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (08 May, 2001)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $15.98
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Reviews (3)

Jamaica by Putamayo
Good music for relaxation ! Not as upbeat as I had expected. My favorites were "Midnight in Ethiopia" which gave it a really exotic twist. I also liked #6 by Israel Vibration , who I had a chance to see in concert. They are an awesome group. Also Peter Tosh's music is good anyday. Pretty good CD on the whole .

great riddim, mon...
Putumayo has a knack for capturing wide ranges of styles within a particular genre on their compilation discs. "Latino! Latino!" and "Cuba" come to mind. "Jamaica" is no exception. A wonderful mix of reggae that will have you shuffling your feet or thumping the steering wheel as you "visit" the island. I always play this album in RANDOM mode. Keeps everything fresh.

Wonderful
This entire album will have you on your feet dancing to the infectious beat of reggae. This is reggae at it's best, from Toots and the Maytals to Peter Tosh every song is terrific. It is impossible to pick a favourite, the whole album is one that you can play over and over. Unfortunately, due to licensing difficulties, Putumayo were unable to include a track by Bob Marley, but there are enough great artists on here to more than make up for that. Culture's "Why am I a Rastaman", Black Uhuru's "Sponji reggae" and Jimmy Cliff's "Give the people what they want", to name but three. If you are anything of a reggae fan, then this album belongs in your collection. 20 page booklet includes photos and information on each artist. Recommended. ... Read more

Asin: B00005B78N
Sales Rank: 29661
Subjects:  1. Int'l & World Music    2. Jamaica    3. Pop    4. Reggae    5. Rocksteady    6. Roots Reggae   

World Playground
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (24 August, 1999)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $15.98
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Editorial Review

This anthology of children-related tracks originates from the globally conscious Putamayo Records catalog. Artists from Africa (Senegal's Touré Kunda, Congo's Ricardo Lemvo), Europe (France's Manu Chao), the Caribbean (Jamaica's Cedella Marley Booker), North America (Buckwheat Zydeco and Eric Bibb from the U.S.; Canada's Teresa Doyle), South America (Brazil's Nazaré Pereira), and Australia (Trevor Adamson) offer tracks, and while the styles and moods vary, the album gels excellently. Even if the multicontinent angle strikes you as too catholic, it bears reiterating that this is a "playground" session, a collection that begins with a Senegalese in-line dance and continues through "Mardi Gras Mambo," a bongo-playing French monkey, and much more. And while the songs are playful, there's nothing in the way of tossed-off music. It's all first-rate, with the artists at the top of their games.--Andrew Bartlett ... Read more

Reviews (34)

So much fun!
This cd is really fun for all ages - yes, including adults! (my 7 kids are between the ages of 1 and 13)We usually listen when we are in the van - and the kids often ask for several of the songs to be repeated. I like the diversity from tune to tune and that the selections are from around the world. This is a great choice if you want a refreshing change from the usual children's selection of music.

Not Bad
We received this and Rhythm 4 Kids at the same time and we preferred the latter for its selection and rhythms.

SUPER CD!!
My family & I are in love w/ all the Putamayo Playground CDs!!Not only are we being exposed to music from all over the world, we are listening to ENJOYABLE children's music.These CDs have really spoiled me, it is hard to go back to more "traditional" children's music after listening to these amazing CDs!I can't wait to see what they come out w/ next. ... Read more

Asin: B00000JT4P
Subjects:  1. Childrens    2. Pop   

Zydeco [Putumayo]
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 January, 2000)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $15.98
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Editorial Review

From the get-go, Putumayo Presents Zydeco is the down-and-dirtiest most-rockin' Saturday night at a sweaty bayou dance hall or juke joint a non-native can experience. Born of the Creole community in Louisiana's backwaters and moving outward to Texas and California, Zydeco bumps, grinds, and is a wang dang doodle of a big time. Youngblood Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band rip through "Co Fa" with their trademark double-kick beat, the low-end-amped-up sound making heartbreak sound like a raunchy roll in the hay. Rosie Ledet's "You're No Good for Me" is a wailer for all lovers scorned, featuring thudding bass, wiry guitar lines, and sax in a one-upmanship dance with her accordion. Beau Jocque growls, Jude Taylor trades accordion licks with his band's organist, and Queen Ida reigns supreme on "My Girl Josephine." As the Creole Farmers sing on the opening cut, "We gonna party 'til the cows come home!" --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (7)

This is the one to buy...
If you only buy one zydeco collection, this is the one to buy. Putumayo is a label that specializes in world music. All their releases have beautiful artwork and include a booklet with notes about each song. This release is a great compilation of recent and current and most of it rocks. A sampling of the more popular musicians include...Beau Jocque...Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas...Boozoo Chavis...Queen Ida...Clifton Chenier...Buckwheat Zydeco...and Chris Ardoin does a cover of "Pass the Dutchie"

Sure to please Zydeco fans!
Great compilation album -- every track a winner! Wonderful for listening and/or dancing. Flawlessly-recorded, authentic "real deal" Zydeco music!

Our child loves this CD
I received this CD as a gift, and I love it.I have a 18 month old who begins to dance about when we just say the word Zydeco.This is a fun CD! ... Read more

Asin: B00003OP0X
Subjects:  1. Cajun    2. Cajun / Zydeco / New Orleans    3. Creole    4. Pop    5. Zydeco   

Putumayo Presents: Carnival
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (09 January, 2001)
list price: $15.98
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Editorial Review

Putumayo Presents Carnival is a rousing collection of world music suited for the purpose of annual street parades, large-scale block parties, and whooping it up in all the festooned finery of Mardi Gras. Only two songs here, Eddie Bo's "I Know You Mardi Gras" and Kermit Ruffins's "Kermit's Second Line," hail from New Orleans. The other eight tracks come from such carnival traditions as the world-famous Brazilian Rio de Janiero throw-down--represented by Martinho Da Vila's "Canta Canta, Minha Gente"--and Cuba's shindig--celebrated here by the Cuarteto Patria, led by guitarist Eliades Ochoa, renowned for his Buena Vista Social Club contribution. Haitian band King Posse turn in one of the most fun performances with "Retounen," a booty-busting blend of reggae, hip-hop, and Haitian compas. With few exceptions, these cuts haven't been released outside their native countries, and as with all Putumayo compilations, Carnival comes with fantastic liner notes detailing both the artists and the carnivals of their homelands. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Happy Times
This will please everyone you know.All you need now is a few shots of tequila, a good costume, a few strands of(barter)beads and your ready to go.

A Fantastic cd
This is one of my favourites in the Putumayo catalogue. Every song here is guaranteed to lift your spirits. Songs from Brazil, New Orleans, Columbia, Cuba/Cameroon, Venezuela, Haiti, Barbados and Trinidad are represented here. The wonderful 20 page booklet comes with detailed info on the artists and songs, as well as an essay on the history of "Carnival". This is a wonderful mix of uptempo music such as Rhythm and Blues, Salsa, Samba, Reggae, and many other kinds of music which blends to create the perfect Mardi Gras/Carnival feel. I can't recommend this highly enough...it's a must-have.

Instant Party!
Putumayo does it again! Just slip this cd into the player and the party gets turned up a couple of notches. I HIGHLY recommend it!! ... Read more

Asin: B00005402H
Subjects:  1. Barbados    2. Brazil    3. Calypso    4. Cameroon    5. Carnival    6. Colombia    7. Cuba    8. Haiti    9. Int'l & World Music    10. Pop    11. Samba    12. Soca    13. Trinidad and Tobago    14. Tropical    15. United States of America    16. Venezuela   

French Caribbean
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (20 May, 2003)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $13.99
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Reviews (3)

fabulous!
Standard French Caribbean music, all with a great beat!I play it in my high school French classes that I teach, and the teens love it too!

One of Putumayo's Best
An easy-going mix of biguine, merengue-ish extremely enjoyable tunes that get your feet moving.Five of the songs (half the album!) are among my all-time French Caribbean faves, and there are no dogs.You can't help smiling during "Parfum des Isles, a good-natured instrumental.The live Kassav cut, OK but not one of their best, is the only true driving zouk on the cd. The rest are more laid-back, but rhythmically more interesting and appealing, with an almost Brazilian feel.The four of us at work all love this cd, and it has held up well after repeated listenings. We recommend it highly.

A fine sampler of Franco-Caribbean musical styles
A nice, smooth set of modern pop songs drawn from the French-speaking islands of Guadeloupe, Haiti and Martinique, lingering on the more tuneful and diverse end of the Caribbean musical spectrum.For someone like myself, who quickly tired of the manic, monotonous landslide of "soca" and "zouk" records during the 1980s, this disc came as a pleasant surprise.It's very listenable and engaging, a nice selection for someone looking for some accessible, poppish world music. ... Read more

Asin: B00008XESB
Sales Rank: 6803
Subjects:  1. Afro-Cuban    2. Caribbean    3. Compas    4. France    5. Guadeloupe    6. Haiti    7. Haiti / Caribbean    8. Martinique    9. Pop    10. Salsa    11. V/A Compilations    12. Worldbeat    13. Zouk   

Arabic Groove
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (12 June, 2001)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $13.99
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Editorial Review

While not yet part of mainstream American music, Middle Eastern music, asevidenced by the rise of Algerian pop star Khaled in France,has sidled up to other club music forms in the hot spots of Paris,London, and elsewhere. To that end, Putumayo's Arabic Groovebrings us up to date with their compilation, a jubilant sonic partyrooted in ancient musical tradition and structure, steeped in the aucourant flavors of hip-hop, R&B, and other urban western forms.Lebanese, Egyptian, Moroccan, and Algerian artists such as formerLondoner Natacha Atlas (who has been featured with both Transglobal Underground and JahWobble) contribute 11 songs which lend themselves to sensual dance,exotic drink, and glamorous gatherings of multicultural hipsters.Traditional Arabic instruments such as the flute and oud blend withguitar, bass, and drums, laying down plenty of funk, fun, and full-onbooty-shaking rhythms. A heady high point is the disco-nomad jam"Leiley," a Transglobal Underground remix of a hit by Lebanesesongstress Dania. Arabic Groove is a feast of a sampler.--Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (32)

For beginners who want to explore Middle Eastern music.
Arabic Groove is a great compilation to start you off into the wonderful and exotic world of Middle Eastern infused dance, electronica, downtempo and chill out. Putumayo World Music released this collection back in 2001 but I think it's still quite fresh for someone who recently discovered the intoxicating Middle Eastern beats probably on a Buddha Bar CD or on another similar collection. The cool thing about the CD is that the artists are listed with their respective countries beside them so you can tell what's what and where each artist hails from. The last track by Cheb Tarik called L'histoire is a an awesome disco/rai fusion of a song. Very catchy and great to dance to. It samples an old Kool & The Gang track which I can't quite figure out but it's very fun! Other songs on this CD include Amarain by Amr Diab. A fun tune that has been featured in Buddha Bar and countless other rip offs as well. There's Natacha Atlas from Transglobal Underground a great band from the UK from the early to mid/late '90s singing Kidda. This track is a bit mellow the sensual and entrancing voice of the great Natacha Atlas. Definitely worth checking out her solo releases.

SJ
www.bestplaylists.com

Great music
The songs on this CD all have a great beat; a good listen when cooking dinner!I am not knowledgable about Arabic music by any means, but I am thoroughly enjoying this CD.

Very Cool Very Exotic
Exotic, sexy tunes. Rich and colorful. Great music to drive to.
Hope there will be another like this one. Wish it were longer, but it is a great CD! ... Read more

Asin: B00005J6WU
Subjects:  1. Afro-Beat    2. Algeria    3. Arabic    4. Egypt    5. Int'l & World Music    6. Lebanon    7. Libya    8. Middle East    9. Morocco    10. North Africa    11. Pop    12. Rai    13. Worldbeat   

Putumayo Presents: Women of Africa
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (27 April, 2004)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $15.98
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Women have always been at the center of sub-Saharan music, as they were the keepers of the hearth, intimately involved in the life-sustaining mysteries of agriculture, food preparation, birth, and death. However, Africa, like the rest the world, is in the throes of social change. Female roles are evolving and the artists heard here represent a confident, worldly sensibility. The roster encompasses Dorothy Masuka's comfortable, gospel-flavored South African jazz, Maria de Barrios' sensual Cape Verdean morna, and a liltingly tonal ballad from Paris-based Algerian refugee Souad Massi. But a major reason to purchase this album is the track by Khadja Nin of Burundi; her deep-toned, knowing, unpolished voice transforms a Stevie Wonder tune into an ecstatic anthem of empowerment. Despite the occasional overuse of easy-fix electric keyboards, each singer emerges as a force to be reckoned with as, one by one, their voices salute the earth and soar into the heavens. --Christina Roden ... Read more

Reviews (5)

very nice!
One thing that stands out in this album is its diversity in music. I like ALL the vocals and the beats. This is music in its pure form.

With rising stars in their own countries
Putumayo World Music began in 1993 with a goal to introduce newcomers to the music of other cultures: today its compilations are renowned for both diversity and their ability to keep traditional roots alive while blending in modern influences and sounds. Women Of Africa holds songs by the notable Angelique Kidjo, Tarika and Dorothy Masuka, but blends in lesser-known women from across the continent, from Judith Sephuma to Nawal of Comoros. Some of these individuals, such as Sephuma, are rising stars in their own countries and here provide the opportunity for a new international audience.

Short but vibrant
This entertaining compilation of women singers from all over Africa will have broad appeal as it covers a wide cross-section of styles from roots to fusion, soulful and sensual to upbeat and jazzy.Productions are consistently good throughout, and the artistry unfailingly talented and professional.The standout track has to be the funky and vibrant "Sina Mali, Sina Deni" (Free) from Burundi's Khadja Nin, but "Retany" from Madagascar's Tarika with its catchy harp accompaniment, "Hima" from Comoros's Nawal, "Abiani" from the Ivory Coast's Dobet Gnahore and "Le Tsephile Mang" from South Africa's Judith Sephuma are also thoroughly fascinating.Other countries represented include Benin, Cameroon, and Algeria.

A pity the album is so short at 40 minutes.The Congo's dance queen Tshala Muana and others could easily have been included.However there's hardly a dull moment and the album importantly makes some wonderful hard-to-find music accessible. ... Read more

Asin: B0001DD0DU
Subjects:  1. Africa    2. Afro-Pop    3. Int'l & World Music    4. Pop    5. South African Folk    6. South African Pop    7. Worldbeat   

Dreamland
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (20 May, 2003)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $13.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

If these truly gorgeous lullabies and songs from all over the world don't soothe the savage beast within your child, nothing will. This hypnotic collection of soft and slow melodies--some ancient, some new--is perfect for lulling a child to sleep or for any evening when you want to escape into a warm bath with candles. Carlos Santana accompanies African singer Angelique Kidjo on the sweet opener, "Naima." Claudia Martinez sings "Arriba Del Cielo (Above theSky)," a lilting traditional lullaby with roots in the Mexican state ofGuerrero. The Letterstick Band, from the small An-Barra clan of Australian Aborigines, performs the moving "Yi-Rrana (Sunset)." One favorite is "Lá Vai Alguém (There Goes Someone)," a hot-summer-night-sounding lullaby sung in velvety tones by Virginia Rosa. Another lovely addition is Kanji Yano of the Sanshin Café Orchestra playing a generations-old lullaby on a traditional stringed instrument from Okinawa called the sanshin. The liner notes, written in English, Spanish, French, and Dutch, provide kid-friendly facts about the countries of origin. A portion of the proceeds are donated to the Putumayo Cross-Cultural Initiative, a non-profit organization that uses the power of world music and the arts to inspire children to connect with diverse cultures. Vive Dreamland! --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Dreamy, Soothing, Ethereal
Talk about heaven. This record is absolutely gorgeous. With its typical quality and sensitivity to sound, Putumayo has compiled a stellar collection of "world lullabies and soothing sounds." Dreamland is perfect for relaxation, meditation, and, of course, drifting off to sleep to. Kids, teens, and adults alike will benefit from this truly heavenly compilation.

Dreamland soars as it begins with "Naïma," a beautiful West African lullaby written and sung by Angélique Kidjo, whose voice is accompanied by the unique guitar talents of Santana. Although all these lullabies are amazing in their own ways, the others that stand out for me are "A Lullabye," a sweet Celtic traditional sung by Teresa Doyle and the Japanese instrumental "Cradle Song."

The absolute zenith of perfection on this album, though, is "Cradle Spell of Dunvegan." Sung by Scottish Lynn Morrison, it tells the enchanting legend of "a child that was born to a human father and a fairy mother. The fairy mother was homesick for fairyland, and her husband sadly let her return. One night, the fairy mother heard her baby child crying and came down from fairyland to sing him to sleep." The vocals and instrumentals are so amazingly gorgeous and lush.

Older listeners will be able to detect and appreciate the hint of the sensual and passionate in all of these songs. These songs all create soundscapes so beautiful and ethereal it stretches the imagination. Dreamland transports the listener to an entirely different world--the magical world where peace reigns and fairies roam. The world where mothers and fathers sing their children to sleep every night while the stars dance in the sky.

Soothing lullabies

Dreamland is my favourite cd. It has
thirteen songs. It is very relaxing and your children could calm right down. They are all from different countries, my favourite ones are from Canada and Benin. The first song was a lady singing a lullaby for her baby.

Fantastic... a must have for Mama, Papa, and Baby
And you thought you were doomed to listen to those crummy fake vibraphone/music box sounds forever now that you are a parent?Thank you, Putumayo for not insulting our intelligence.These beautiful songs will provide your child with an enriching listening experience, and you will love them too.My favorite is the South African "Thula Mama" and I find myself singing it to my little one often. ... Read more

Asin: B00008XESC
Subjects:  1. Childrens    2. Lullabies    3. Pop    4. V/A Compilations    5. World Beat Collections    6. World Music