Album Review: "Music of Indonesia Flores" by Margaret Kartomi (1999)
If you’re a fan of folk music that feels like it was recorded in someone’s backyard—albeit a very cool, culturally rich backyard—you’ll dig this gem. Music of Indonesia Flores is one of those albums where every track seems to whisper secrets from another world. It’s not just music; it’s anthropology disguised as sound. And hey, who doesn’t love a little intellectual adventure with their tunes?
Released under Celestial Harmonies (a label known for its knack for finding the obscure and making it irresistible), this album dives deep into the traditions of Flores Island in Indonesia. With Margaret Kartomi at the helm—professor, producer, and all-around cultural wizard—it’s part academic project, part musical journey. The ensemble Sanggar Lawe Lenggong does most of the heavy lifting here, and let me tell you, they bring the goods.
Standout Tracks That Stick Like Glue
Let’s talk about “Nggong Mesé - Tembong Music”, shall we? This opener grabs your attention right away, not because it’s flashy but because it’s so disarmingly real. You’ve got gongs clanging, drums thumping, and zithers doing their thing like nobody's watching. There’s something hypnotic about how the layers build up—it’s less of a song and more of an invitation to step into a village ceremony. I found myself rewinding just to figure out if the instruments were competing or conspiring together. Spoiler alert: probably both.
Then there’s “Central Manggarai Whip Duel Game Music.” Yeah, you read that right. A whip duel. Now, before you start imagining Indiana Jones meets karaoke night, let me explain. This piece sounds like a soundtrack to a ritual where people settle disputes by whipping each other while everyone else cheers them on. The rhythm is infectious, almost celebratory, which makes it even funnier when you realize what’s going on. I mean, imagine trying to choreograph a dance battle around this—it’d be chaos, but beautiful chaos.
Why This Album Matters
What sets Music of Indonesia Flores apart isn’t just its authenticity—it’s the sheer effort behind it. From Kartomi’s meticulous field recordings to James Ashley Franklin’s mastering work, every detail screams dedication. Even the liner notes are worth reading (yes, I said it) because they give context without being boring. Plus, props to Gary Swinton for the illustrations—they add a nice touch of charm to the whole package.
But honestly, my favorite part? The way these songs feel alive. They aren’t polished studio creations meant to climb charts. Nope, they’re raw, unfiltered snapshots of life in Flores. Listening to them feels like eavesdropping on history itself.
Final Thoughts (and a Random Musing)
So would I recommend this album? Absolutely—if you’re into stuff that challenges your ears and brain simultaneously. But fair warning: don’t expect instant gratification. These tracks take their sweet time to grow on you, kind of like mold on bread—but in a good way.
And now for the unexpected remark: after listening to this album, I suddenly developed a craving for gong-shaped cookies. No clue why. Maybe it’s the power of suggestion. Or maybe I’m just hungry. Either way, go listen to Music of Indonesia Flores. Who knows? You might end up baking percussion instruments too.
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