Bachata

This past saturday, while some of you out there were enjoying Pearl Jam at the Gorge, I attended my second bachata concert. Bachata (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bachata) is a type of music native to the Dominican Republic that is quite popular with young people. It has a distinctive high pitched guitar sound, which is backed by a multitude of other instruments and smooth vocals.

This Saturday's performance was by Zacharia Ferreria at the Sosua Car Wash. Now wait just a minute, you might say, a car wash? Yes, for some reason here the car wash/bar makes perfect sense as a business model. I haven't found anyone that can really explain it yet, but when I do, I'll be sure to pass it on. But yes, these places are car washes by day, and also have an adjoining bar area with a dance floor and stage for nighttime entertainment. Anyway, I was not too impressed with Zacharia as he showed up around midnight, played five songs, and then took about a two hour encore break and returned for a few more songs. I am not joking, the break was that long. And I didn't think his music was as good as the other concert.

The prior Saturday I saw Raulin Rodriguez at a similar type establishment, sans car wash. Raulin played for a very long time and didn't take a two hour break to go do whatever it is that Zacharia decided to do. The venue and music were also a lot better, so that was overall a better experience. I suppose I'll see some more of these performances, but not too many as they are relatively expensive. Probably about $10 entrance fee, $5-$10 for taxi fares depending on where it is, and however much extra for drinks should one so choose. Not hugely expensive, but a lot more than just staying in Cabarete.

Until next time, same bat time, same bat channel.