The Duke of the Bachata

Joan “The Duke” Soriano specializes in the acoustic guitar–based music of the Dominican Republic known as bachata, which offers some of the same rhythmic pleasures as flamenco and calypso (an intertitle describes it as a working-class variant of the bolero). One of 15 children, he lives in Villa Mella with his wife and son. Filmmaker Adam Taub shadows Soriano as he works on a new CD with New York producer Benjamin de Menil, and tours the U.S. Popular in his native country, Soriano believes he'll find wider fame if God wills it (as a session musician, he's already tasted the limelight while backing better-known artists on stage and television). Despite his best efforts, however, he's experienced a few setbacks, although his faith in the future seems undiminished. Joan is the most famous sibling, and his sister Griselda and brother (and bandmate) Fernando share his hopes that music will lead the extended family out of poverty. Taub captures rehearsals, fiesta appearances, and performances in Villa Mella, New York, and Chicago, where Soriano joins veteran performers Edilio Paredes and Ramon Isidro Cabrera (aka El Chivo Sin Ley, “The Lawless Goat”) as Bachata Roja. The director also speaks with the musician's parents, Juana and Cande, music-loving farmers who encouraged their children to pursue their individual passions. According to Juana, “He has the world in front of him,” adding—with a laugh—”I don't.” DVD extras include deleted scenes. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)