================================================================================
Exotica is an interesting musical scene. From the 1950s to the 1960s, Americans
who came of age during the second World War were interested in a type of 
easy listening musical experience that replicated an idealized concept of 
Hawaiian or South-Pacific culture. Denny described this music as "pure fantasy"
and had no basis in authentic Oceania, Hawaiian, or Southeast Asian music or 
culture. It was pure escapism and not without notes of the "noble savage." That
can be seen in literature and culture of the 19th century.

The Foundations

Yma Sumac "Voice of the Xtabay" (Capitol, 1950)
Album Cover
Peruvian Soprano, Yma Sumac's
vocal range was legendary; five octaves. Rumors persist that it was really
4 1/2, but I think that is just sour grapes.

Lex Baxter "Ritual of the Savage" (Capitol, 1951)
Album Cover 
This album is foundational to the exotica sound. Lex Baxter was a composer and
arranger for swing bands. Created a lush vocal word 

My Collection

Martin Denny
Quiet Village, Liberty LST 7122 (Stereo)
Exotica, Liberty LST 7034 (Stereo) 
Exotica, Liberty LRP 3034 (Mono)
Exotic Percussion Liberty LST 7168 (Stereo)
Enchanted Sea, Liberty, LRP 3141
A Taste of India, Liberty, LST 7550

Arthur Lyman
Taboo Vol. 2, HiFiRecords, R822 (Stereo)

Weebly Edwards
Hula Island Favorites, Capitol, T987

Haunani
Trade Wind Islands, Capitol, ST1203 (Stereo)

Maile Serenaders
Let's Hula, Hula Records, H-500 (Stereo)

Paris Theater Orchestra
A High Fidelity Adventure in Exotic Lands, Somerset, P-5600