Customer Reviews

Raices Africanas

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Raices Africanas is a great introduction to the African-Cuban musical tradition. The cd covers various styles of this tradition. In line with other African derived forms of music, the listener is able to hear the interplay between the instruments and the vocalist(s). The cd covers various styles of this musical tradition ranging from Rhumba to the male initiation anthem Abakua. This collection by Grupo Afro-Cuba is excellent for students of music, collectors of African derived music or people who just enjoy good music. The varied tracks in this collection invoke feelings of joy, pride and dancefloor fun. A must for anyone with a love for drumming and great music.

I am from Africa and enjoy African and Afro Cuban music. I collect traditional music from all the world including Africa, Veracruz, Cuba etc. This CD is on the top of my list. All the songs are wonderful. I can't remember where I bought it. It could have been at best buy but I'm happy to have such great traditional music that makes me feel like I share a lot with the people of Cuba.

I am Cuban, here since 1959, still a political exile. I am not, but 85% of my family are musicians, popular and classical. So, it has been rather easy for me to note that since the Castro revolution of 1959 Cuban music, actually all the arts, took a deep dive. For the worse. Extreme induced poverty and extreme socio-political repression are not conducive to creativity. This CD, however, shows that, at least, Santeria music, and its variations, has not only remained intact, but that it has flourished, likely because of the Africanization of Cuba, after 1959. Basically, Santeria music is drum music. Vocals are of secondary importance. Accordingly, this kind of music essentially depends on the quality of the percussion. This is a kind of sound, given the various drums used, guiros and guatacas, that does not usually record well. This CD, however, comes very close to the Sweet Sound. If you have not heard it, and you like good percussion, buy this CD. You will like it. Aché to all!