Solo Guitarra is the ECM Records solo debut of Spanish flamenco/classical guitarist Jose Luis Monton, who hails from Barcelona. Though he's had numerous recordings as a band leader going back to 1996, it was his playing on the sessions for vocalist Amina Alaoui's Pan-Iberian Arco Iris project that caught the attention of the folks at ECM, and here we are one year later with his first major statement for the label.
It's all guitar from start to finish here on Solo Guitarra, as Monton has crafted 13 gorgeous pieces here that show off his classical and flamenco chops. Lovers of acoustic guitar work will find much to savor on this release, as each track is filled with haunting melodies, beautiful chords and majestic lead lines. Thankfully Monton varies the tempos quite a bit throughout the CD, which makes for an easy, pleasant listen that is at times quite intoxicating. Though he has some serious technique, Solo Guitarra isn't all about that, instead it's how the guitarist uses his superior chops to create achingly beautiful melodies and gorgeous soundscapes with his instrument. Whether you choose to put on this CD as the perfect accompaniment to an evening by the fireplace with a warm or cold beverage, as a lovely soundtrack to a good book, or a lush backdrop to a quiet evening with family or friends, Solo Guitarra is an enchanting experience that will appeal to flamenco guitar fanatics and lovers of quality music.
Track Listing
1) Rota
2) Espanola
3) Son & Kete
4) Air
5) Altolaguirre
6) Con Permiso
7) Al Oido
8) Conclusion
9) Detallitos
10) Hontanar
11) Tarareando
12) Piel Suave
13) Te he de querer mientras viva
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
