Rough Guide to Calypso & Soca

Various Artists - International - Caribbean & Cuba, Rough Guide (Series) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (October 8, 2001)
• Original Release Date: September 28, 1999
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: World Music Network
• ASIN: B00001NTKH
• Also Available in: Audio Cassette  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 3.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #372,955 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)
  • #92 in Music > World Music > Caribbean & Cuba > Zouk
  • #99 in Music > Indie Music > World Music > Caribbean & Cuba

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars poor compilation from an otherwise great series, February 21, 2006

By 

Robert Reid (Chicago, IL USA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Rough Guide to Calypso & Soca (Audio CD)

The Rough Guide series is generally an outstanding way to learn about a new genre by sampling tracks of the highest musicianship.

Nothing against Calypso and Soca- these are both dynamic and expressive genres. But this compilation reflects the modern trend towards downsized horn sections replaced by synthesizers. The problem with synthesized horn sections- and I think this is beyond just a matter of taste- is that the authenticity of the sound is limited by the current state of the art technology. So rather than sounding timeless, this music is dated by its technology. Rawness and energy are lacking on this compilation, which could best be described as cheesy.

5 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great collection!, July 30, 2000

By 

Peter Jeffe (software architect in lovely Austin, Texas, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Rough Guide to Calypso & Soca (Audio CD)

This is a great intro to some great music. Rough Guide makes wonderful travel guides, and their foray into music upholds the same high standards. There are some real stand-outs on this collection, and overall it's a very nice introduction to this infectious music. An ultimate party album!