If you want “la verdad” when it comes to Spanish guitar playing and atmospheric music, look no further than Paco De Lucia, who is hitting his prime with this exciting and passionate collection of concert sessions from his homeland on this 2 cd package. He’s supported by an exciting tam of Alain Perez/b, Israel Suarez/perc, Antonio Serrano/key-harmonica, Antonio Sanchez/g, a pair of vocalists (David de Jacoba and Duquende, as well as thrown in for special pleasures, a flamenco dancer named Farruco who spices things up.
The material ranges from genteel instrumentals such as “Variaciones de Minera” or gracious rhythm pieces like “El Cafetal” to vocals that mix Andalusian harmonies with Moorish calls of love and romance, as on “Mi Antonia” and “Lagartijo.” De Lucia’s touch on the strings can be as gentle as a church candle or as declarative as a run of the bulls. The range of dynamics throughout the collection of songs, even on a single song is as flavorful as chicken paella. A feast of fret work.
Emarcy Records