If you reduce the words “music” and “dance” to their respective definitions, you will find that they share a few descriptive terms in common. However, the irrefutable Greatest Common Factor here is “communication.” Music, when delivered properly, should speak to the soul and stimulate something inside of us. An opinion or feeling, something intangible. To dance is to take that something you felt from the music, then physically convey your two cents in reply. It’s connected and reactive.
Bachata is an inflammatory guitar-based style of tropical music originating in the Dominican Republic; it’s also a favorite amongst the Latin social dances. Once viewed as a “sidekick” to the more popular salsa, Bachata now enjoys a considerable stand-alone fan base. It’s compelling, intoxicating even, and touches you on a primitive level. It conveys feelings of earnest yearning and the reality of love, from the unrequited to the resplendent.
Explore the history and culture behind this evocative genre at the Latino Cultural Center’s “Roots of Bachata” event, where veteran bachatero Puerto Plata will appear in concert alongside Joan Soriano, whose first international album, El Duque de la Bachata, was released in September 2010. Both artists hail from humble beginnings in the Dominican Republic. Both artists capture the Afro-infused rhythms and emotionally-charged ideology that characterize Bachata. And they both honor the roots of its tradition, despite a generation gap of fifty years. “We are thrilled to introduce these two remarkable musicians to the Dallas community,” notes María Muñoz-Blanco, Dallas’ director of Cultural Affairs and acting general manager of the Latino Cultural Center. “Their talent and authenticity are extraordinary; this will be an evening of Bachata like you’ve never heard before!”
The concert begins at 8:00pm this Saturday, February 19 at the Latino Cultural Center (2600 Live Oak, Dallas TX 75024). Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the door or online. For further information, please visit the event page on the Latino Cultural Center’s website.
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