Gipsy Kings - Compas

On 1997's Compas the Gipsy Kings stretched out into new traditional sounds while adroitly maintaining their patented pop blend. During the Gypsy people's centuries of wandering, they picked up a mosaic of musical influences on the road and made them their own. To reflect this historical development in music, two Egyptian musicians, Hossam Ramzy (percussion) and Abud Abdel Al (violin), add Middle Eastern embellishments to the guitar-driven mix. The Brazilian percussion master Nana Vasconcelos also sits in, as does Shawn Farrenden on didgeridoo. The sole sour note is the inclusion of the Italian chestnut "Funiculi Funicula", which lowers the tone but which will no doubt delight restaurateurs. --Christina Roden Amazon.com essential recording

Gipsy Kings, typical Gipsy kings

I find that this album is like ALL the Gipsy Kings albums; very the same material over and over. All Rumbas; over and over. I dont think they reflect true flamenco at all; as they play the same music over and over; do not do soleares; sevillanas etc; if you are a fan of modern jazzy flamenco then you will most likely like this; if you are more of the Carlos Montoya type, forget it and save your money for more authentic music... August 3, 2001

Compas

Compas is another excellent Album from the famous Gipsy Kings. It is a little different from the other albums but don't get me wrong, it is still a very good one. It must be their most inventive album ever and their most atmospheral one. Standout tracks are: Ami Wa Wa (Solar Por Ti), La Fiesta Comenza, Canto A Brazil, Mi Nino and the beautiful Di Me. The instumental tracks are all brilliant. This album is very recommended, for every one. June 17, 2001

Takes you to Spain without the airfare!

I am a diehard GK fan! I fell in love with them after hearing "Bamboleo". I think they are a fantastic group to introduce the world to Latin music. After hearing just one song, you will fall in love with the ancient gypsy and arabic sounds that are blended with classic instruments. The big plus is the voice of Nick Reyes who is sometimes hard and unstoppable, making you feel the pain of loss or the smooth sensuous voice that makes you feel the passion of love. Their music reflects the landscape of Spain and its history. I visited Spain in February and heard their music many times on the radio. When I want to remember my great time in Spain, I listen to the Gypsy Kings. November 17, 1999

Not worth the money unless you're a diehard fan

I'm mystified by Amazon's decision to list this as one of the group's Essential Recordings. It's definitely the weakest of the bunch, although a couple of the songs are OK. If you want the flamenco rhythms the Gipsy Kings are known for, I prefer Love and Liberte, but any of the other albums are better than this one. If you want unplugged sound, try Allegria; if you want the middle eastern-Moorish musical influence, Mosaique is far superior. October 24, 1999

Simply wonderful

Yes, this album is simply wonderful, though it won't tell you much at first audition (except of course, for Solo Por Ti and Mira La Itana Mora). Now that I have it, I really feel ready to live. Technically, it's perfect, as Gipsy Kings songs always are. Absolutely superb music, once again! Interesting thing about Gipsy Kings - you can't tell why you like it, since your heart is the one in charge. May 24, 1999

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