Genre: Jazz, Pop, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Easy Listening, Space-Age, Pacific, Exotica
Year: 1961
Tracklist:
- My Tane (My Man)
- Cumana
- Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise
- Day Delight
- Moonlight On The Gange
- Cherokee (Indian Love Song)
- Misirlou
- Anna
- Song Of The Bayou
- Moonlight And Shadows
- My Shawl
- The Girl Friend Of The Whirling Dervish
Notes:
The 1961 album “Exotic Percussion” by Martin Denny is a quintessential showcase of Denny’s innovative approach to exotica music. Known for his ability to transport listeners to distant lands with his unique soundscapes, this album takes the listener on an auditory journey through a variety of percussion-driven tracks. The album features an eclectic mix of instruments, including bongos, congas, and other exotic percussion elements, which combine to create a rich and immersive listening experience.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Jungle Drums,” which exemplifies Denny’s mastery of rhythm and atmosphere. The track’s pulsating beats and intricate percussion arrangements evoke the feeling of being deep in a tropical jungle, surrounded by the sounds of nature. This immersive quality is a hallmark of Denny’s music, and “Jungle Drums” is a perfect example of his ability to create vivid and engaging sonic landscapes.
Another highlight of the album is “Bali Ha’i,” a track that showcases Denny’s talent for blending traditional melodies with his exotic instrumentation. The song’s soothing yet mysterious melody, accompanied by a variety of percussive sounds, transports the listener to the mystical island of Bali. This track, like many others on the album, demonstrates Denny’s skill in using percussion to enhance the storytelling aspect of his music, making each piece a journey in itself.
“Exotic Percussion” is a testament to Martin Denny’s pioneering spirit and his ability to push the boundaries of musical expression. The album’s diverse range of tracks, from the energetic “Tiki” to the serene “Enchanted Sea,” highlights Denny’s versatility and his commitment to creating unique and captivating music. For fans of exotica, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, showcasing the best of Martin Denny’s innovative approach to percussion and exotic soundscapes.