Jolgorio
Perú Negro

Peru Negro is probably the longest-standing exponent of Afro-Peruvian culture: 35-years of pretty much uninterrupted music and theatrical shows. Jolgorio, their second album since the death in 2001 of Ronaldo Campos, the group's founder, is a soulful, melodic work with ever-shifting rhythms that play out between guitar, percussion and voice.

Songs like Alcatraz and Picarón are upbeat and sprightly, while Carnaval Negro and Son de los Diablos take inspiration from traditional carnival dances (in fact, jolgorio translates as a visceral spirit of celebration). There are also less party-hardy tunes, like Villancico Negro (an Afro-Peruvian Christmas carol) and Negrito, both featuring extraordinary singing by a children chorus.

Though the CD is a gem by itself, dancing is a vital part of the whole Perú Negro experience: indeed, better than only listening is to watch a live performance. Check their website (www.perunegro.org) for tour dates.

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In the Americas? Buy Jolgorio at amazon.com