L'autre Style

This compilation is taken from the years 1975 to 1982. It is called The Other Style for good reason. This was the cadence era of sizeable orchestras prior to the emergence of zouk and its accompanying technology. The Malavoi of this era incorporated more pronounced Haitian, Brazilian, and Cuban charanga influences in its mix. Those familiar with Malavoi's later work can hear the nascent qualities that were to develop into one of the great string orchestras of Martinique. The cadence style was the foundation of Malavoi's sound. The group's name comes from a highly prized variety of sugar cane that grows in thickets sometimes infested with vipers. Here one hears mambo, samba, cadence and Haitian merengue, which is generally slower and more African than the Dominican variety. The grooves are extended with some fine solo work. Sometimes the horns are slightly out of tune, but the makings of a unique French Antillean phenomena are evident on this compilation. The track "Martinique" is a classic that churns for almost nine minutes. A must for Malavoi devotees, and a good retrospective of the group's beginnings.