Mediterra Nostra

Barrio Chino has all the warmth of the Mediterranean in their music, as well as the full range of influences of the region, which can range from the hard edge of "Je Te Salue Marseille" to the alarmingly MOR harmonies of "Azul" and all points in between. They're good at what they do, however, blending Arabic music with Italian and Spanish influences in a pretty seamless fashion, and it's impossible to fault the playing, although they seem happy to settle for music that rests easily on the ears, rather than anything truly challenging. Even "El Oriente," which could have been a tour de force, backs away from the edge to a more comfortable position, only reinforced by occasional touches of smooth jazz. The closest comparison is probably the Gipsy Kings, although the influences here range wider. There's a place for this music -- and it's probably as background music in your favorite Mediterranean restaurant. ~ Chris Nickson|