Babal¿¿

by Carmen Flores

Overview

With a fascinating mixture of rhythms and whirling harmonies, Carmen Flores ("the Ebony Fire") steps boldly back onto center stage with her 2000 release, Babalu. Drawing from the more African side of traditional Cuban music, Flores casts an inescapable spell with her belly-rumbling voice and masterful song interpretations. The album features a style called Afro, which emulates the religious bata drumming of the Yoruban religion, a style often overlooked by modern Afro-Cuban musicians. In her repertoire choices, she also pays homage to her African roots, with many songs referring to the Orishas, or Gods of the Yoruban tradition. Through references to deities of old, selections such as "Cabiosile pa' Chango," "Yemaya," and "Babalu y Tabu" bring a rich, ancient religious tradition to life. The mood of the record is far from dark or somber, maintaining a festive, lively attitude. Flores is without question a vocal talent to be reckoned with. The thick, rich timbre of her voice commands respect and inspires awe. She is like no other Cuban musician recording today. For those caught up in the resurgence of interest in the musical traditions of Cuba, Carmen Flores' Babalu will convert them, turning enthusiasts into connoisseurs. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez

Product Details

Release Date:	08/22/2000
Label:	Ahi-Nama Records
UPC:	0616117102928
Rank:	770

Tracks

1. Cabiosile pa' Chang¿¿
2. Yemay¿¿
3. Babal¿¿ y Tab¿¿
4. C¿¿ngoro Sonsongo
5. Angelitos Negros
6. Mi Confidente
7. Mulata Canela
8. Yerbero Moderno
9. Mata Siguaraya
10. Oraci¿¿n a Varadero
11. Oraci¿¿n Caribe

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Carmen Flores   Primary Artist
Juan Carlos Romero   Trumpet,Choeurs

Technical Credits

Adolfo Costales   Producer
Margarita Lecuona   Composer
Agustin Lara   Composer
Nestor Mili   Composer
Andres Eloy Blanco   Composer
Manuel Alvarez Maciste   Composer
Pedro Diaz   Composer
Carlos Sepulveda   Illustrations
Javier Guillen   Representation
Bob Tucker   Mastering
Bobby Martinez   Composer
Eliseo Grenet   Composer
Lino Frias   Composer
Nicolas Guillen   Composer