Gamelan is mostly associated with Indonesia, especially Bali and Java. Malay gamelan is quite distinct from its near cousin, particularly in the repertoire rather than the instruments.The gamelan is belived to have been introduced into Malaysia in 1811. Initially there were some 60 tunes, but these days only about 12 are regularly performed. While Indonesian gamelan is often intense and intricate, Malay gamelan is all the more simple, with the various instruments for the most part playing the melody. The result is an alluring and accessible music, wistful and relaxing. The instruments include the saron (metallophone), gambang (xylophone), keromong (sets of small kettle gongs), kenong (larger kettle gongs), a gong and gendang or tabla like drums. A revival of interest in Malay gamelan music has largely been sparked by the gamelan orchestra on this CD, based at the Universiti Malaya. The pieces on this album are all performed to accompany various dances. This beautiful album comes with English liner notes.
Amazing recording of Malaysian Ghazal music. A mix of Arabic, Indian, European Chinese, African and other musics, that reflect Malaysia's multi-cultural society. Instruments include tablas and harmonium, violin, accordion and great vocals. Price: £18.99
Fantastic recording of Malaysian tradational dance styles played on violin, accordion, and traditional percussion called rebana. The music combines Malay and Western music with Chinese, Arabic, and Indian elements. Styles include joget, zapin, inang, masri, and tunes such as Serampang Laut and Johore Sports Club.
10 traditional tracks of ghazal, joget, zapin, inang played brilliantly on accordion, violin, rebana drums and knobbed gong. Very arabic sounding at times. combining Malay and Western characteristics. Price: £15.99
Excellent album of various Malay dance styles including Jawa, Joget, Inang and Zapin, performed by male and female duo. 10 tracks.
10 tracks of classic traditional Malay songs from Ahmed Jais, S.M. Salim, Rosiah Chik, Ahmed Jais and others. Seductive melodies, beautifully sung. Price: £15.99
Wonderful compilation album of various types of Malaysian traditional music, both vocal and instrumental.
Excellent compilation album of national Malay songs sung by an array of veteran singers. Price: £17.99
