Search - Inti-Illimani :: Grandes Exitos

A Wonderful Collection Of Inti's Best Music

Mr. Fellini | El Paso, Texas United States | 05/26/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For those who enjoy folklore and traditional music from our neighbors down south you must check out the music of Inti Illimani. One of Chile's most legendary groups they vibrate with a passionate mix of beautiful sounds, powerful lyrics and fun pieces that reflect the beauty of a culture and even memories of a revolutionary era in Chile's history. Inti Illimani first emerged in the late 60s from the various student movements demanding change in Latin America, marching on the streets waving Che Guevara banners and condemning the sacking of their resources. The group really gained prominence during the revolutionary years of Salvador Allende, the first ever elected socialist leader of Latin America who would tragically be overthrown on September 11, 1973 in a coup backed by the CIA and lead by Augusto Pinochet. When Pinochet's murderous fascist regime took power Inti Illimani was forced into exile, leaving for Europe where they continued to produce music that expressed a love for the country and it's history. "Grandes Exitos" tries to sum up the best of the group from 1973 to the present, but it never betrays it's title. These are, their biggest hits, and devoted fans will be disappointed to see their more political, activist songs missing except for the exhilarating "El Aparecido," a song written by slain folk singer Victor Jara about Che Guevara's sudden appearance in Bolivia in the late 60s. Among the higlights are "Sensemaya," a feverish, almost operatic piece with interesting imagery. "Alturas" is a beautiful track with flutes and strings that embody the spirit of the Andes, transporting you to another place. "Exiliada Del Sur," co-written by legendary Chilean folk singer Violeta Parra, is a strong piece with a captivating sound, lyrics and strong vocal work and an almost dreamy quality. "Samba Lando" is lush and fun, a lot of the songs here dance with poetry and myth, capturing the spirit of the ancient Andean peoples, many of who still populate the region and proudly retain their heritage. And there are always tinges of revolution present in the songs, we can sense the band members never lost their spirit for change even when their country's socialist movement was crushed by the tyrannical regime of Pinochet. Sometimes art is more dangerous than guns, and Inti Illimani never lost that passion to express the truths about their homeland through their work. Even the more fun songs meant to dance have a spirit of resistance. "Grandes Exitos" does not have all the great tracks Inti Illimani has produced over the years, but has enough to offer to wet your beak and intice your appetite to go out and look for more."

Just right!

MD | San Jose, CA United States | 08/30/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"So I am sitting in the audience at the San Jose Jazz Festival and

this group starts up to play. Wow! Where have they been? Or rather where have I been? They were selling two CD's at the performance and I bought exitos...wishing the next day I had bought their newer one as well.

The most beautiful harmony produced with a classical touch...never too loud, so relaxing yet some tunes quite forceful....Just right! I can't understand a word and I am carried away. I am hooked. The tiny guitars they play along with full guitars produce an almost "Greek"? mediterranean sound but we know they are Chilean. I would love to hear them live again someday."