Let me go on record by saying that I DO NOT know the least bit about merengue. I do not buy merengue records. I don't even know who is happening, who is hot, and who is not. As a result, I CANNOT and WILL NOT pass judgements or opinions on the music. However, I am a die hard salsa fan that appreciates a good merengue song to dance, regardless of lyrical content. Merengue is indeed danceable music that moves the body and soul.
This section is designed with the purpose of informing the public about some the latest merengue productions in the market. Along with their press releases, I will offer a very brief content description. Merengue either moves you or it doesn't...You decide.
(c) 1999 Platano Records Distributed by: UNI Distributions Description: PL, SDM, D, V(1)
According to the press release issued by Platano Records, Darlyn Y los Herederos describe their merengue as "romantic and danceable". There's no need for raunchyness and vulgarity. "Our signature is romance. It never goes out of style". Darlyn is also credited as a songwriter and the choreographer for the group.
Darlyn Y Los Herederos
Pruebame
(c) 1999 Prestigio Recordings
Distributed by: Sony Discos
Description: PL, PRM, D, V(1)
Frase Klave Describe their music as "New Millenium Merengue" due the innovative nature of their music. "We want to bring something different on the scene and appeal to the youth while not disregarding the roots." These four handsome young Dominican talents bring romantic lyrics while providing excellent dance music. The tunes will definitely crowd the dance floors and will fill the void for thoughtful lyrics in merengue. Adding to what you just read, Frase Klave gives a great show! Their showmanship is genuine. They are just great to see. Utilizing everything technology has to offer, Prestigio Recordings is setting higher standards in the Latin music market.
(c) 1999 Caliente/Atlantic Records
Distributed by: Atlantic Records
Description: PL, SDM/NYM/PRM, D, V(4)
The little lady with a big voice! In this, her first production, Luisa tries some seriously daring things. The one that sticks in my mind the most is, the array of musical styles, their variations, and even thier inventions. Luisa has a voice that truly charms and mesmerizes without trying to be "cute".
DESCRIPTION:
PL = Pretty Lyrics. As opposed to comical (CL) and at times raunchy (RL) lyrics. This type of merengue is very vocal and song driven. This should be very self explanatory.
SDM = Merengue sound of Santo Domingo. Hey who are we kidding? Nowadays Puerto Rico (PRM) and New York City (NYCM) are also producing merengue of a different texture. If you disagree, listen to Los Hermanos Rosario, Elvis Crespo, and Oro Solido...You'll hear the difference.
D = Danceable. Again this is one of those self-explanatory categories. Again what else is there to say? From a salsero's point of view, merengue either moves you or it doesn't (ND).
V = Variance. This is a bit tricky. On normal circumstances a merengue production would remain exactly that, a merengue production. However, there might be those few instances where a merengue record diviates from merengue to what is a meren-rap-house-hip-hop-reggae mix that is almost...well...not normal. Then again, what's normal? The variance will range between 1 to 4.
Check back soon. The glossary will be updated regularly.
© Nestor A. Louis ALL REVIEWS ARE SOLELY THE OPINIONS OF THE AUTHOR.
