Search - Various Artists :: Best of Ballroom (Bonus Dvd)

Good for those very new to dance

James LeMay | Fort Worth, TX | 08/15/2005

(2 out of 5 stars)

"I found this package of three discs locally at a Target store very inexpensively. I was drawn to it because as a dance teacher and DJ, I am always looking for more music, particularly Tango. After reading the flaps on the package, I was skeptical that they could put great dance videos and great music in the same set.



I'll start with what may be beneficial to those new to dance and want a quick sample of those dancers who are best in their field. They do have some of the best dancers in the world on the DVD with some very good performances. They also have some music on CD 1 that I would consider good music for dance practice. It allows you to hear very clear beats so you can learn quickly to get your steps in sync with the music. It's somewhat bland, but I would expect that for practice music.



I bought the disc set for the 14-track Tango music on CD 2. With 101 Strings Orchestra, how could I go wrong? CD 1 was well played and is usable for learning. However, CD 2, which has the Tango tracks, is very disappointing. As a DJ, I would be embarrassed to play such music. It sounds like a high school band. The violins are off pitch and the drummer is not even in sync with the piano. There is no bandoneon, the accordion-like instrument, played in any of the tracks which is what give Tango music its zest. It's just not the same. Tango music is meant to be exotic, dramatic, and upscale, and it won't be found on this CD. Producers should have never let CD 2 out the door. Music from another album, Forever Tango, does it justice.



However, the DVD does show what years of dance training will do for those who are inspired to be the best. The performers are Gary & Diana MacDonald, Christopher Hawkins & Hazel Newbury, Eddie Simons & Michelle Officer, and finally Rafael Cologne Bermudez & Ana Llorente. They showcase some of their choreography, and it's done elegantly. Most of the video is well done. However, in a few spots they block the dancers with the props, flowers and fountains; I suppose to make it look like a romantic movie? But that betrays the very purpose of the video is to watch the dancer's footwork. What were they thinking?



As a last comment, the box says "Whether you're a beginner or have been dancing for years, each dance is broken down to the basics so you can learn quickly and easily or step up to what you already know." Sounds like an instructional video, right? It's not. There is nothing of the sort on it. There are 19 showcases, which is quit a few by the way. But there is nothing on it to show you how to dance.



At best, the DVD can be an inspiration for the beginners. For expert dancers, they may find a few patterns and styling they can use. (For true dance instruction, please look around.) CD 1 is good for practice. CD 2... well, it comes free in the box.



I'm giving it low marks not for the dancers, who are best in their class, but for the producers that should do justice for those with great talent, and should give the sport of dance the sophistication and all authentic flavor it deserves.

"

Ballroom review

V. Akelian | Chicago il | 08/06/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I think the music is very easy to dance to. I enjoy it very much."