Customer Reviews

Floreando

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I recently saw Conjunto Jardin in concert, and the excitement that ran through the audience with their first chords was electric. Their first CD, "Nuevo Son Jarocho," was a delight with the group's strong musicianship and pleasure in their playful interpretations of classic songs evident on every cut. This CD, "Floreando", is equally enjoyable, with strong, pure vocals and that always-surprising Jarocho syncopation that will tickle anyone with a rhythmic bone in his or her body.

This is not straight traditional son, which includes a harp and uses string instruments for percussion. Conjunto Jardin has a wonderful percussionist from West Africa who ekes a world of beat from what looks like a wooden box. The harp is replaced by a keyboard (for most people, this is very hard to tell on the album) and then there is, of course, the fact that the vocalists are women. Libby and Cindy Harding's vocals are soaring and pure, and the bass and percussion provide the balance that is usually not included in traditional son where everything seems tuned and sung really high. The result is traditional music with a new kick

From the upbeat "El Colas" to the yearning "La Guyabana" these are multilayered, textured, infectious songs that stick in your head and put a spring in your step. Irresistible

 On FLOREANDO, Conjunto Jardin is joined by Tim Harden on harp and jarana. Tim is the music professor/folklorist/father of Libby and Cindy Hardin, the leaders of the group.
 Tim gives the group even more of an authentic sound, although this does tone down the almost rock-like drive of the group slightly compared to their first cd NUEVO SON JAROCHO.
 Another change between FLOREANDO and the group's first cd is the addition of multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Jorge Mijangos. Jorge plays both string and percussion instruments.

Well, to begin with, the music is fabulous--an excellent purchase. The product arrived in a timely manner, in good condition. I am pleased--again.