Anyone familiar with
the Gipsy Kings' unique sound will find no surprises on Tierra Gitana, their eighth album of original material. All the trademarks are here: the flamenco guitar, the staccato handclaps, the soaring vocals, all set to Latin rhythms. This album has a very relaxed feel; it is pleasant but not very engaging. There is nothing on this disc as immediately accessible as some of the group's earlier successes, like "Bamboleo" or "Baila Me," and for that reason this one isn't recommended for newcomers. Start with The Best Of, then, if you want to buy this, you'll know exactly what you're getting.