Al compas del mundo - programa #90 - Hispano-Moresque music

Just what is “Hispano-Moresque” music, you might ask? A combination of Iberian indigenous music with Moorish (Arab) influence offers a general definition. It started when various Arab military leaders vanquished sections of what we now call Spain, starting in the 8^th century, their domination lasting until late in the 15^th century. Of course the conquerors spread their cultural values while they held sway. The region remained largely Christian, but more aesthetic traits like architecture, culinary taste and music were deeply affected. As a result, much of Spain’s traditional music as we can hear it in recordings from the 20^th century up to the present day, still has a decided Arab influence in choice of instrumentation, rhythm, and singing style. Maybe not so much in the Northern Basque country and other redoubts, but particularly in the central and Southern areas (and strongly amongst the Roma of Spain) that historic account results in musical styles like what this week’s program has to offer.

That’s a long-winded explanation of why you’re about to hear half a dozen tunes by one of my all-time favorite groups, Radio Tarifa. The band consisted of Spanish and North African musicians whose taste exemplified the best of both worlds, in my view. Their music is haunting, energetic at times, wistful, and strongly emotional. You can’t account for taste, but I love it. The other groups are not just along for the ride. Eduardo Paniagua is a well known leader of ensembles specializing in “early music”; La Musgaña has several recordings of Spanish folklore; Xarq al-Andalus leans toward the earlier historic side of the music; and Vox proves to be somewhat experimental in their approach, going so far as to feature the lead singing in Arabic. Finally, Rabita Andalousa takes us back further than the rest, playing a court style of semi-classical music that owes most everything to the caliphates of old Spain. - J. H.

Run list for Hispano-Moresque music First broadcast August 17, 2023

01 Radio Tarifa – Osu

02 Xarq al-Andalus - La Jove Negre-Absencia

03 La Musgaña – Truvisqueira

04 Vox - While the Birds Sing-Umzuj

05 Radio Tarifa – Nina

06 Eduardo Paniagua y Musica Antigua - La mora de Borja

07 Radio Tarifa - Ramo Verde

08 Xarq al-Andalus - Les Pigues

09 Radio Tarifa – Mañana

10 Vox - Bearer of the Cups-Ajuha

11 Radio Tarifa - Rumba Argelina

12 Eduardo Paniagua y Música Antigua - Oh Aurora de la Luna en su Perfección

13 Radio Tarifa - Nu Alrest

14 Rabita Andalousa – Touichiya

Shown atop: Alcazar of Seville

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