Al Di Meola: Diabolic Inventions and Seduction for Solo Guitar, Vol. 1: Music of Astor Piazzolla (2007)

Too some, Al di Meola is best known for is shredding guitar work as part of Return to Forever, and also his early solo albums. But di Meola has always had an interest in flamenco styled acoustic playing ("Mediterranean Sundance" off of Elegant Gypsy, anyone?) — which is the six-string style that he fully embraces on his 2007 release, Diabolic Inventions and Seduction for Solo Guitar, Vol. 1: Music of Astor Piazzolla. Like its title says, the album is comprised solely of renditions of tunes by Argentine tango composer Astor Piazzolla, who is best known for trailblazing the nuevo tango style (which contained traces of both jazz and classical). And di Meola has no problem offering up a fine tribute, especially on such tracks as "Campero" and "Romantico." With Diabolic Inventions and Seduction for Solo Guitar, one of the world's most technically gifted guitarists proves once and for all that he is also one of the most versatile, as well.

Tracklist:

1 Campero

2 Poema Valseado
3 Tangata Del Alba
4 Adios Nonino
5 Tema De Maria
6 Milonga Del Angel
7 Romantico
8 Milonga Carrieguera
Diabolic Inventions and Seduction for Solo Guitar, Vol. 1: Music of Astor Piazzolla
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Al Di Meola: Live from Seattle and Elsewhere (2009)

Al Di Meola - the "guitarist of spectacular abilities" (NY Times) lauded both as musical trailblazer and nonpareil technical virtuoso -- will kick off a two-month U.S. tour on January 28th, with his acoustic group World Sinfonia. The dates will follow on the heels of an inspired new live album 'Live From Seattle And Elsewhere,' consisting entirely of Di Meola originals, and slated for full national release on January 12.

Mixing lush, tango-inspired romanticism -- heavily influenced by late Argentine master Astor Piazzolla, a friend and mentor --- with Latin influences drawn both from Spanish traditions and Di Meola's own Italian heritage, 'Live From Seattle And Elsewhere' is a polystylistic triumph.

Di Meola was an icon in the making before the age of 20, exploding onto the scene with his jaw dropping skill and inventiveness as part of legendary jazz-fusion band Return To Forever. He has recorded 26 solo albums throughout his career, selling some 6 million CD's, with three gold-certified albums, and traversed a diverse range of styles from avant-garde to ambient. With World Sinfonia, Di Meola aims to move his audience with a full range of emotions, often mixing fiery passion with delicate arrrangements -- pausing only fleetingly to inspire visible awe with the legendary technique that is his trademark.

World Sinfonia :Live From Seattle And Else Where

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Gumbi Ortiz: Miami (2006)

The hot chick on the album cover with the blond hair holding a cigar really has nothing to do with the feisty, multifaceted jazz whirlwind created by veteran percussionist Gumbi Ortiz, but along with the neon flamingo, it beautifully represents the ultra-hipness of this shimmering, joyfully eclectic collection. Have congas, will travel — that pretty much defines funky and frenetic world of Ortiz, who brings his rich Puerto Rican/Cuban heritage and a lifetime of eclectic musical influences and experiences — from jazz fusion, pop and funk to retro-soul, samba and even a hint of Irish jig — to Miami. Renowned throughout the world for his nonstop tours over the past 19 years with fusion guitar legend Al DiMeola, the charismatic conguero gathered a powerful ensemble of jazz greats in fashioning a multicultural tribute to the New York native's adopted home state of Florida, where he has lived since 1980. The first two tracks perfectly capture Ortiz's multiple music sensibilities. The sizzling "South Beach" begins with a lighthearted Brandon Fields flute solo and a laid-back Latin groove before evolving into a wacky, way out jazz free for all (highlighted by Walt Fowler's brash flugelhorn solo). The Jeff Lorber-produced, smooth jazz friendly "T-Back" captures Ortiz's spirited pop side. That smooth side comes out again on "In the Groove" (featuring Jay Beckenstein) but in the middle are some serious fusion excursions that will please everyone who loves "real jazz" and can't stand the pop stuff. There are also a few irresistibly seductive nods to what Ortiz calls "the Herbie Hancock funk thing," some tasty samba excursions, a touch of retro-soul and even a taste of gospel. Whether he's going wild and banging his congas on free-form jazz jams, showing his mastery of more subtle rhythmic nuances, or simply supporting the rhythm section behind more straightforward melodies, Ortiz proves to be an incredible lead performer in his own right. Highly recommended!

Al Di Meola and World Sinfonia - Live In Milano (2009)

Best know for his electric fusion work, guitarist and composer Al Di Meola, leading an acoustic group he calls World Sinfonia, has been exploring his interest in tango, in general, and his friendship with New Tango master Astor Piazzolla, in particular, for nearly two decades now. In “La Melodia. Live in Milano,” Di Meola leads a revamped World Sinfonia featuring Fausto Beccalossi on accordion and vocals, Peo Alfonsi on guitar, and old collaborator Gumbi Ortiz on cajón [a wooden box].
In the program, Di Meola & Co. revisit Piazzolla (”Café 1930,” “Double Concerto”), and explores Ennio Morricone (”Cinema Paradiso,” which is quickly becoming a jazz standard), the late Sardinian singer Andrea Parodi (”Umbras”), as well as four originals.
Be it because of the presence of the undramatic accordion (as opposed to the bandoneón, the melancholy sounding, button squeezebox that is the quintessential instrument in tango), the pared down arrangements or the flamenco flair that seeps through here and there, the music in :La Melodia” has a bright (at time harsh) tone. (Di Meola fans looking to be wowed by dazzling bursts of speed won’t be disappointed.)