DI MEOLA PLAYS PIAZZOLLA

I simply cannot understand that I´m writing the first review of this extremely beautiful album. Are there no Al Di Meola completists on this site ?

Allthough this is Al Di Meola playing Piazzolla´s compositions in his style, and not Al Di Meola´s own compositions, don´t be afraid to try out this album as it is close to his work on the World Sinfonia albums, especially Heart of the Immigrants where four of the songs from Al Di Meola plays Piazzolla are also featured: Night Club 1960, Tango II, Bordel 1900 and the beautiful Milonga del Angel.

Piazolla is most known for playing complicated tango compositions on his bandoneón which included jazz and classical influences. He is widely considered as the creator of the music genre Nuevo Tango. This means that it is not your traditional tango on display here. The music on this album is very complicated but at the same time mellow and almost easy listening ( Not in a bad way though).

The production is worth mentioning too, as it is flawless and a real pleasure to listen to.

This is all your moneys worth and more so. The only reason I don´t give this one the 5 stars is because it could be a little more varied, but don´t let that scare you away. If you like the World Sinfonia period of Al Di Meola´s catalogue go buy this one as it is essential.

This album has some nice guitar playing, but really the only stand out track is Bordel 1900, the next best songs being Oblivion and Tango Suite Parts I & III. The remainder of the album is nice-sounding, but ultimately run-of-the-mill (albeit relaxing) guitar playing. Di Meola Plays Piazzolla is a decent pick if you are already a fan of Al. Otherwise, begin elsewhere with an album like Land of The Midnight Sun or maybe World Sinfonia for a better representation of what Al has to offer.

Di Meola's acoustic album, recorded with his new project New Sinfonia musicians, with participation of guitarist Chris Carrington and Al's regular collaborator acoustic guitarist and producer Hernan Romero ( he is playing keyboards and sings there).

All album's music is based in Argentinean neo-tango genius Astor Piazzola's music (however includes Di Meola's composition as well). The music is fully acoustic, mostly guitars and bandoneon sound, with minimum of percussion and rhythm. Melodies all are what you're expecting from Argentinean neo-tango, perfectly played and arranged. But whenever there is not a big differences in style, this album, being great work for acoustic guitar lovers and neo- tango fans, could be a bit boring listening for jazz-rock listener.

Starting from this work, Al Di Meola will record a serie of world fusion albums during nearest 15 years.