« The Ambassador of Chamamé » by Dirty Linen

 […] Much more easily described is En vivo en la Argentina, wich is a straightforward concert video of composer/accordeonist Raùl Barboza and his group. Barboza is billed as the « Ambassador of Chamamé, » a style associated with his native region that has developed and extended. There are some Indian elements and some that sound similar to tango, and as that music ha found a warm reception internationaly here it might worth quoting the great Astor Piazzolla on the subject of Barboza and chamané : « Only Barboza can have the incredible « Correntino swing » with Cocomarola, Santa Ana - his predecessors - had. He is a fighter, highly deserving of my respect and admiration. » Here Barboza is joined by guitar, harp, bass, and percussion to create music that utilizes nicely turn impressionist soul-baring that is similar to Piazolla’s tango. It seems this virtuoso can something striking and unexpected with every musical idea ; just when you think he has gotten out of something he delves that extra bit deeper. He’s also a warm and engaging performer. If you’re a fan of South American music, then you really need to check out this master ; even listeners who don’t  generally care for the accordion are likely to swept away. And while it’s great to sit down and really watch the show, it’s also awfully nice to have the soundtrack CD handy in the car to liven up a dull drive. Buck BAKER – DIRTY LINEN