The universal language?

Discovering the music of a foreign country can be one of the most fascinating and rewarding experiences that a music lover can have. Ethnic music, it is generally acknowledged, is an open window to any culture's idiosyncrasies and it's people's lives, and is the purest expression of that country's soul. In addition, there is a very interesting link between the sound and rhythm of a language and the music of that country. Would any of you fellow Audiogoners like to share any experience(s) you have had, positive or negative, with the music of a foreign country; or of your own native country? These can be through recordings (please recommend) or live performances you attended in or outside of that country. I look forward to your responses.