Given the varied backgrounds of the artists on this CD and the wide range of influences on their styles, truly it is a collection of "world music." What does it say about the world, however, that so many of these excellent artists are based in Western countries?
People from poorer regions of the world often seek a better life in more affluent societies, of course; political dislocation and religious repression often come into play as well. The results can give one mixed feelings. It's sad when artists (and others) have to leave their native lands to pursue their dreams. However, intermingling of cultures, notably through the arts, can build needed bridges. Western peoples, for example, are being exposed to relatively unfamiliar, positive aspects of Chinese society through watching the Beijing Olymics right now.
It's somewhat fashionable to disparage the term "world music" as an emblem of homogenization, and there is no shortage of bland, toothless music out there from many lands. Putumayo, however, is excellent at compiling songs that are representative, musically interesting, and pleasing to the Western ear. This disc is no exception.
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