New York City: Global Beat of the Boroughs

Various Artists (Artist) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (June 12, 2001)
• Number of Discs: 2
• Label: Smithsonian Folkways
• ASIN: B00005J6X2
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #328,700 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)
  • #5 in Music > World Music > Europe > Eastern Europe > Albania
  • #14 in Music > World Music > Far East & Asia > Korea
  • #23 in Music > World Music > Europe > Eastern Europe > Ukraine

Editorial Reviews

New York's soundscape is as varied and distinctive as its skyline. But the cultural diversity and musical virtuosity featured here will surprise listeners who think they know the "real" New York. Featuring outstanding grassroots ensembles from more than a dozen of New York's most vibrant ethnic communities, this release pairs the traditional with innovative cross-cultural fusions. From Irish ceili groups to Caribbean steelbands, Gypsy ensembles to Chinese orchestras, African-American gospel choirs to Latin jazz, this audio portrait of the five boroughs will delight lifelong New Yorkers and first-time visitors alike. Over two hours. 31 tracks. 40-page booklet, extensive notes, and photos.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Very hot compilation of the music of many cultures, August 22, 2001

By 

S. Lichtman (Stamford, CT USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: New York City: Global Beat of the Boroughs (Audio CD)

The New York City Global Beat of the Boroughs stands out as a music compilation on which nearly every one of the 30+ tracks sizzle. I like the CD best because it delivers hot tunes that sound better with multiple listenings - while preserving true, traditional ethnic music styles instead of delivering watered-down, electronic "world fusion". Some of the tracks remind me of the most 'native' world music that a David Byrne or Paul Simon would collaborate on. The music includes Latin American, African American, Middle Eastern, European, and Asian styles. I've seen a related concert in New York City - the artists are equally interesting in person.

5.0 out of 5 stars A true delight for the ears, June 4, 2009

By 

Jacquelyn Lavaque "buzzygirl39" (Twin Cities, MN) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: New York City: Global Beat of the Boroughs (Audio CD)

I picked this up at a used CD store today, not real sure what to expect, but these CDs contain music that is a real delight! From the folksongs of the rural mountains of Albania to the white sand beaches of the Caribbean, the immigrants that settled in New York certainly brought a wealth of diversity in music. I really enjoyed the Puerto Rican bombas and salsas as well as the joyous Jewish klezmer music, the Greek rebetika and the various gypsy melodies. This is a worthwhile addition to any world music collection. Try something different, check it out!

5.0 out of 5 stars this cd has a great mix!, March 21, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: New York City: Global Beat of the Boroughs (Audio CD)

I hope to find more cds like this one.