Label: Mercury – SR 60845
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Stereo
Country: US
Released: 1963
Genre: Pop, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Exotica, Pacific, Easy Listening
Tracklist:
- Quiet Village
- Bangkok Cockfight
- Sampan Landing
- Crickets Of Karachi
- Girl Behind The Bamboo Curtain
- River Of Dreams
- Cockatoo
- Sunrise At Kowloon6
- Jacaranda
- Jungle Trail
- Corazon
- Quai Bir Hackeim
Notes:
In 1963, Don Tiare and His Orchestra released Exotique – The Music of Les Baxter, a lush tribute to one of the pioneers of the Exotica genre, Les Baxter. This album showcases Tiare’s reverence for Baxter’s compositions, while offering listeners a unique reinterpretation of Baxter’s atmospheric and tropical melodies. Known for its orchestral grandeur and imaginative soundscapes, the album captures the spirit of adventure and exotic allure that Baxter popularized during the mid-20th century. Tiare’s effort is both a homage and a reinterpretation of Baxter’s artistry, demonstrating how the genre could evolve in the hands of different musicians.
The album features a compelling selection of tracks that highlight Baxter’s diverse approach to Exotica music, which blends orchestral elements with unconventional instruments and sounds from around the world. Tiare brings his own flair to these compositions, with arrangements that heighten the drama and exotic qualities of each piece. Tracks like “Quiet Village” and “Jungle River Boat” retain the dreamy mystique of Baxter’s originals, while Tiare’s interpretations often add layers of rich instrumentation and tonal complexity that create a fresh listening experience. His orchestra’s precision and artistry shine through, showcasing the versatility of Exotica as a musical genre.
Beyond its musical achievements, Exotique – The Music of Les Baxter stands as an example of how Exotica had become a widespread cultural phenomenon by the early 1960s. Tiare’s choice to dedicate an entire album to Baxter’s works speaks to the lasting influence Baxter had on musicians and audiences alike. The album was released at a time when American fascination with Polynesia and other “exotic” locales was at its peak, coinciding with the Tiki culture boom. This cultural context adds depth to the album, as it mirrors the escapism and romanticized portrayals of distant lands that shaped much of the Exotica genre.
Today, Exotique – The Music of Les Baxter is appreciated not only as a musical tribute but also as a historical artifact that captures the essence of an era enamored with exoticism and adventure. Don Tiare and His Orchestra’s dedication to reimagining Baxter’s music ensures that the album remains a gem within the Exotica canon. For fans of the genre, it provides an opportunity to rediscover the charm and innovation of Les Baxter’s compositions, viewed through the creative lens of another talented musician. Tiare’s work continues to inspire modern listeners, underscoring the timeless appeal of Exotica music.
