Flamenco is an extraordinary art form: rhythm, music, voice, words, dance, story, full of improvisation and collaboration. We saw a show at the famous Casa Patas last night and the first half (in particular) was just extraordinary. One of the things I love about Flamenco is that it is so sensual but not pretty. And passionate, but also satiric. An unabashed expression of humanity.
I read something in passing the other day suggesting that the number of young people in Spain learning and performing Flamenco is falling in the face of global music and performance trends. It should probably be expected. I don't know how profound that shift is. But the show last night just reminded me of what we might lose as transnational culture develops.
I was looking for some world music + flamenco the other day but couldn't find it., Although I've got no doubt it is here in Madrid.. but that kind of collaboration needs the ingredients: the African or Indian music disciplines or forms, and similarly the artistry of flamenco. We need of need the cultural diversity to grow and interact, but to stay diverse.
Here's an image of Inmaculada Aranda, who were sitting about five feet away from last night.
There is Jorge Pardo - jazz/flamenco fusionist. Saw him in Barcelona at the Merce festival last year.
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