Memories of Southeast Asia
Ben Wall | North Tijuana, CA | 10/10/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In a recent vacation to Singapore, I encountered this recording on tape and was captured by the rhythm. It is hypnotic, soothing and instantly returns me back to Singapore and the town of Ubud in Bali, Indonesia. In Bali, this type of music is played in many places but one never notices it as it is at almost a subconscience level. I was only reminded of the sounds and memories when I played this tape. It also reminded me that as an American, we are caught up with materialism and that our lifes are so complicated."
All instro; featuring flute
Kiko | California | 11/26/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"All 10 tracks are degung without vocals (unless you sing along). Different instruments carry the melody in different tracks, but there is always at least ornamentation from the bamboo flute (suling). Sabilulungan is the hit single of this disk, with Bandung probably the B side.
The arrangements are varied and well constructed. The sound of the group is sweet. I especially like the balance of the sound. You can hear all the instruments clearly almost all the time.
The drumming is tight but not as flamboyant as Sundanese drumming often is. All the tracks are fast in tempo and cheerful in mood.
The edition pictured above apparently does not credit the artists, as the description notes "various artists." My copy, a used one from a Z-shop, has the original Sundanese art and credits. It notes the group is "Suara Parahiangan," led by Ujang Suryana. The date is 1990 and the label is SP Records.
In the past I've been mildly annoyed to find recordings of Javanese or Sundanese music with Balinese cover art (as in the picture above). I thought it indicated laziness or ignorance on the part of the art designer. After reading the two reviews previous to mine, I realize that such recordings are probably special editions intended for visitors to Bali. Sundanese degung and kacapi/suling recordings are played in tourist-oriented restaurants and shops all over Bali. Those attention-to-detail Balinese folks may be trying to preserve the illusion that these are indigenous Balinese musics."
Wonderful Gamelan Variant
Timothy Francis Swope | Portland, OR USA | 05/08/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"While I thoroughly enjoy traditional Gamelan, this album is wonderful listening. It is a 'softer' variant of Gamelan, with a few different instruments, a bit different from the jangle of Barong or Legong Gamelan. Great listening, takes me back to my recent trip to Bali."
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1