| Label: CHANDOS
Catalog: CHAN10609
Format: CD Aquarelle Guitar QuartetBaiáo Malandro / Hasta Alicia Baila / Seven Dances and 'No Looking Back' / Introduction and Fandango / Ajde Dali Znaes Pametis Milice / Pajduska / La Muerte del Ángel / The Swan 'LK 243' / Malagueña Salerosa / Tarantella / Made in France Dances is the second release for Chandos by the Aquarelle Guitar Quartet. The percussive capability of the guitar lends itself extremely well to the rhythmic energies of many dance forms. This collection of dances - appearing in various guises - highlights the versatility of the classical guitar, and the manner in which the instrument can be used to interpret such far-ranging compositions.
The music the Quartet has chosen for this album represents an internationally diverse and chronologically varied spectrum of music. Classics such as Boccherini's Introduction and Fandango sit alongside original arrangements of the music of Piazzolla and Biréli Lagrène and most notably a new commission from the British composer and saxophonist Andy Scott. Scott's work, Seven Dances and 'No Looking Back', is a collection of inspired movements that show off the guitar's many attributes in imaginative and dynamic ways, drawing on traits of a variety of contemporary musical styles and genres.
The launch concert will be on the 30th June, 7.30pm, at the RNCM's concert hall and the group will appear at the Chester Festival, in the St. Mary's Centre on the 7th July at 7.30pm.
Reviews of Spirit of Brazil (CHAN 10512): '...with outstanding playing and infectious spirit. This is no mere niche guitar CD, but a luscious and lively general-appeal winner.' Rob Ainsley, BBC Music (June 2009) *****
'If, like me, you usually find anything more than two classical guitars a transgression of good taste and a guitar orchestra a complete abomination, this surprising new release from the Aquarelle Guitar Quartet will force you to revise your opinions... Guitarquartetophobes - your cure has arrived!' William Yoeman, Gramophone (May 2009)
'If one guitar quartet can give a traditional string quartet a run for its money in terms of abundant technique and breathtaking artistry, it is the Aquarelle Guitar Quartet.' Robert Levet, International Record Review (June 2009)
'...this is the best Brazilian program I've heard in quite a while.' Keaton, American Record Guide  Price: $25.98 |
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