Manu Chao - Baironanera

by Jessica Roiz
Who doesn’t love Manu Chao, you know, the French native that sings in more than seven languages and uses every style of music to his advantage?   Many of us, including myself, have not had the opportunity to catch Manu Chao in concert.  That is why Manu Chao and Radio Bemba Sound System released “Baionarena”, purposely to satisfy society and the unfortunate souls that have yet to see Manu in action!

To avoid confusion, this new production doesn’t offer new songs.  On the other hand, it is a collection of over 30 of the best and unreleased Manu Chao songs throughout the years, and the icing on the cake, it is completely live. 

The first time I heard this CD was at the Fabrika office and within the first few tracks, the Fabrika crew felt as if we had the whole scenario before our eyes: flashy lights, a sweaty hyped multicultural crowd, the shirtless Radio Bemba Sound System guys, and the main man himself.  It was an exhilarating experience and we did not move from our chairs once! 

“Baionarena” was recorded during a concert in Bayonne, France.  This production is quite different from the previous live album “Manu Chao Radio Bemba Sound System”.  Still the same enthralling idea only this time you get twice as much PLUS a DVD.  Let’s face it, you can never go wrong with “Mr. Bobby”, “Rainin in Paradize”, and Mano Negra’s “Mala Vida”, this is Chao at his best!  If you don’t believe me, check out a clip from the “Bionarena” DVD, I’m pretty sure you’ll be on your way to some virtual or actual music store before the clip even ends.