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

Rapidshare / Hotfile @ 320K

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!