Compas
On 1997'sCompasthe 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 masterNana Vasconcelosalso 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