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Review:
Chinese chronicles from as early as the sixth century speak of a kingdom called Po- Li on the northern tip of what is now Sumatra. Arabic writings and Indian inscriptions from around the 9th century also mention this area and its obvious importance. Of all the regions in Indonesia, Aceh, at the northwestern end of Sumatra, is the first to have contact and be influenced by the outside world. Ironically, it is still one of the least known regions of Indonesia, even among Indonesians themselves. Banda Aceh is the capital of Aceh and also the main gateway to the province. The Partopi Tao Indonesian Music Ensemble, who play exclusively on traditional hand instruments, developed complex traditions of instrumental music -- from one of the very few societies in the world to use tuned drums to carry a melody. Combining these drums with gongs and an oboe-like instrument, their ensemble produces a "musical ecstacy that never ends." -- from the liner notes by producer John Matarazzo These surprising genres are virtually unknown outside of Indonesia.
— CalabashMusic.com
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