The Soul of Black Peru

Performer: Various Artists
Distributor: BMG (distributor)

Notes: Compilation producers: David Byrne, Yale Evelev. Includes liner notes by Fietta Jarque and Gregorio Martinez. The Afro-Peruvian style heard on The Soul of Black Peru compilation originated hundreds of years ago from the Spanish slave trade. The music is a mix of African, Spanish, and Andean traditions, due to the fact that the slaves who came to Peru were not from one specific region, so they did not have a common language to communicate with. It's easy to break the music down and see which culture contributed what -- the lyrics are all sung in Spanish (Spain), have a slight melancholy approach (similar to the Yaravi form from the Andes), and boast interesting rhythms (Africa). The musical form is just starting to catch on in other parts of the world, and deservedly so. And since this is heartfelt, emotional music, fans outside of the world music circle can easily grasp and appreciate it. Ranging from Manuel Donayre's "Yo No Soy Jaqui" to Chabuca Granda's "Lando" (Luaka Bop Records head David Byrne even contributes a track, "Maria Lando"), The Soul of Black Peru is a true musical treasure. ~ Greg Prato

Rolling Stone (6/1/95, p.62) - "...the most beautiful and consistently listenable compilation to come from David Byrne's label since his early best-selling Brazilian collections..." Q (9/95, p.140) - 3 Stars - Good - "...a vibrant street feel, mixing earthy percussion with acoustic guitars, hollering vocals and salsa flavours..." Vibe (10/95, p.154) - "...well-tutored vocals atop beats and chants from various Afro-Peruvian 'hoods....there's always something infectious and sublimely inclusive about the results..." Village Voice (2/20/96) - Tied for #8 on the Compilations list of Village Voice's 1995 Pazz & Jop Critics' Poll.

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