That's Hommy, not Tommy

May 19, 2024 5:52 AM

"Orchestra Harlow's answer to the Who's Tommy -- Hommy, A Latin Opera [YT playlist], and one of the few concept albums we know from the New York Latin scene of the time! [Dusty Groove] The tracks are fairly short, and they're separated by short "interludes" throughout the album that feature some cool spoken bits that trace the story of the record...although Orchestra Harlow borrow the name of the Who's album, the work here is all original -- not covers -- two long "acts", spread out over the sides of the record with a sophisticated approach that shows the Harlow group moving into much deeper territory at the time."

"Picture it: Spanish Harlem, 1970s

Hommy, pronounced “OH-me,” is born deaf and blind. He’s also an absolute monster on the congas, keeping the beats bumping through the barrio nonstop. Despite the perils of his childhood and the rancor of his father, we discover that Hommy, the soul, chose to come into this life without the normal human faculties, transcending basic communication for a greater understanding of connection and humanity. Did we mention he also plays the hell out of some drums? Hommy does play that." [Fly Brother]

Multiple online streaming links via songwhip.com

posted by hippybear (3 comments total)

Hommy, can you hear me?
posted by HearHere at 9:35 AM on May 19

I do hope people will check this out. The music is joyous and the whole album is great fun. It's only related to Tommy in name and also being a concept album about a deaf and blind kid. Otherwise, it's top of the line music of this style.
posted by hippybear at 11:58 AM on May 19

Celia Cruz is Divina. Gracias
posted by HearHere at 5:13 PM on May 19