Por Soleá
Camarón por soleá con Tomatito
Yesterday, I attended the Roots and Evolution of Flamenco presentation at USC sponsored by La Peña Andaluza en California. Despite arriving a bit late, I was fortunate to catch some of the performances and was especially glad to make it in time to hear Angelita Agujetas sing as she is one of my favorite local cantaoras.
After the presentation, there was a short question and answer period and a thoughtful and at times biting, discussion took place regarding flamencologists, the difference in dance styles, the use of castanets and most surprisingly, some comments on whether Camaron was a good interpreter of Solea. As someone who worships at the altar of Camaron, I was surprised to hear this but considering the source, one of the Agujetas clan, I was willing to examine the idea.
I don’t think I know enough about cante to say anything on the subject but I have included two videos here, one of Camaron con Tomatito and the other of Antonio Mairena, who is well-known for his interpretations of Solea. I will let you make your own decision.
Antonio Mairena con Manuel Morao – Soleá
Antonio Mairena con Melchor de Marchena- Soleá – Parte 2
To hear even older interpretations of Soleá, please check out the excellent site Excavated Shellac. There are a couple of very interesting soleá tracks including one por baile.