Al Di Meola and World Sinfonia: The Grande Passion

Concentrating on the richness of these selections, one gets the impression that Di Meola is fully in love with the world and all it has to offer. Middle Eastern and Latin percussionists collaborate and bear sweet fruit; austere strings and piano plunge into gypsy fire and emerge anew like the phoenix, vibrantly reborn. It’s difficult to select a high point on this disc, as the compositions are of a piece and all captivating. “Misterio” appropriately sets the pace with its intimations of Baroque austerity, Indian drones, Spanish languidity and modern orchestral punch under one umbrella. The remaining pieces continue in such exotic veins, grounded in classicism but seasoned with the flavors of many continents.

Three works by Argentine tango master Astor Piazzolla are presented with reverence. “Double Concerto” for guitar, piano, percussion and orchestra is a study in complement and contrast as Di Meola’s stuttering figures mesh with Mario Parmisano’s piano and then spin off into their own dance. Di Meola’s “Asia de Cuba” cleverly unites Asian and Latin elements, while “Azucar” is all fragile, lacy prettiness. Rarely New-Age-y as many classical/world fusions tend to be, Di Meola’s fresh, uplifting vision elevates The Grande Passion toward the realm of High Art.

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