Record Reviews

PEO ALFONSI ~ ITACA EGEA 153 (Barcode: 8015948001530) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009 This is an album by Italian Jazz guitarist / composer Peo AlfonsiFind albums by this artist, recorded with clarinetists Gabriele MirabassiFind albums by this artist, American trumpeter Kyle GregoryFind albums by this artist, bassist Salvatore MaioreFind albums by this artist and percussionist Antonio MambelliFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, all of which are original compositions by Alfonsi. The music is exquisitely melodic, full of typical Italian lyricism and melodious passion, beautifully performed by all the participants, who play in various settings between duet and quintet. The music is entirely acoustic and the crystal clear sound quality lets the listener to hear every little nuance captured during the recording. This album is a perfect example of the Mediterranean Jazz, which is full of diverse folkloristic influences, with everything between Medieval Music, Romanticism and delicate Middle Eastern aromas. All the musicians are Masters of their instruments, with Mirabassi being probably the most renowned one, but they all play magnificently. Gregory is a great surprise, as his playing is totally free of the American Jazz mannerisms, and completely compatible with the European Jazz aesthetics, which prevail here. His sound fondly resembles that of the great Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. Overall, this is a touching and wonderfully performed piece of music, which should satisfy even the most demanding music connoisseurs. I stumbled on this album by accident, but the revelation was absolutely overwhelming. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 04/03/2024Posted: 04/03/2024

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AL DI MEOLA ~ MOROCCO FANTASIA IN-AKUSTIK 9132 (Barcode: 707787913225) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 2008 Released: 2017 This is a live album by American guitarist / composer / bandleader Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist, recorded live in Morocco with his World SinfoniaFind albums by this artist ensemble and local guests. The ensemble includes accordionist Fausto BeccalossiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Peo AlfonsiFind albums by this artist, bassist Victor MirandaFind albums by this artist, percussionist Gumbi OrtizFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter KaszasFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Di Meola and one is by Astor PiazzollaFind albums by this artist. The music is nothing short of sublime, especially with the live ambience, continuing Di Meola’s fascination of World Music, especially the Mediterranean musical cultures. The brilliant amalgam of Flamenco, Spanish, Italian, Eastern European and Arabic elements is completely unique and this period of recordings with the World Sinfonia is definitely the most refined and satisfying in his long and prolific career. Although the local guest musician’s contributions are only marginal, they add to the entire atmosphere of Word unity in music, strengthened by the enthusiastically worm reception by the audience. The concert was also released in video version, for those interested. Overall, this is spectacular illustration of how music can be completely borderless and universal, and how well it can work together regardless of its origin. Di Meola is not only a great virtuoso, but perhaps more importantly a superb integrator of World Cultures, for which he deserves the highest applaud. This album is a must to all Jazz-World Fusion fans.

Updated: 21/03/2024Posted: 21/03/2024

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