In this edition of Chronique musicale, I am reviewing a CD, which I find very special and unique. This album was originally produced back in 1983 and what a good idea it was to produce on CD. « Synthèse » is an unusual album by Haitian standards. As the producer and arranger Serge Duviella , who also conceived it, said, he was « diving into uncharted territory » with this genre and his efforts were largely rewarded. The CD is completely instrumental and this is really what you call « easy listening » music. There is some excellent synthesizer arrangements. This is an absolutely wonderful CD. You will find an arrangement of a Sweet Micky’s song « Kem sere » that sounds even better than the original. It is sophisticated, it is harmonious, it is relaxing, and it is well mixed. You will probably think that I may going overboard with this CD, but folks, I am not exaggerating, this is simply nice music, at least for those among you who enjoy relaxing while listening to music, either alone or with some one dear…Dim the light, pour some Cremas in two cups and put on Synthèse, and enjoy thoroughly.

Zin also launched a CD for the holiday. They have not been as hot as they used to be, but they still kicking. On the CD, they sound like the « Zin » of old, which for a while dominated the New York scene. The beat sounds nice, the mixing is nice. However, the band is in dire need of a lyricist. Indeed, the lyrics are at best flat. And by the way, Zin is not the only group who could use the services of someone who can write meaningful lyrics. But that in itself could be the subject of an entire Chronique. Suffice it to say that this album could have had more impact if it had had better lyrics.

The « Original Shleu Shleu » of Tony Moïse launched a CD at the end of the year. There are some familiar names there: Singers Joe Trouillot, Essud Fung Cap. Throughout the years, Tony Moïse’s sound has remained as harmonious as it was when Les Shleu Shleu came out in the early 60s. On this CD, it is obvious that he sought to recreate this original sound and he achieves this goal with varying success, like in tunes No. 7 and 8, classic Shleu Shleu. This is not so obvious in other tunes. The mixing , I think, could have been better and some instruments do not come out clearly enough. But, for the nostalgic ones, this album could bring back memories.

Delta Force Compas has just put out its third volume. I picked it up not really knowing what to expect, not being totally familiar with its music. There are any big surprises, but it sounds nice. Your classic Konpa dirèk. The mixing is also good.

Serge Bellegarde

Serge Bellegarde