Filmed and recorded in May 2004 in Germany, this enjoyable set with legendary guitarist Al DiMeola and his band covers many of the maestro's classic cuts from the past 20 years. Joining Al on stage are keyboard player Mario Parmisano, percussionists Ernie Adams and Gumbi Ortiz, as well as Hungary's Sturcz String Quartet, who really flesh out the sound and add a majestic element to DiMeola's fiery mix of acoustic & electric Latin tinged jazz.
For the most part, Al sticks with his Ovation acoustic/electric for much of the set, and he plays it through multiple effects. For the tunes that in the past would require his roaring and screaming Gibson Les Paul, like "Egyptian Danza" or "Rhapsody of Fire", Al kicks in the overdrive and you could never tell that he is actually playing on an acoustic instrument if you were by chance just listening to the show and not watching it on DVD. DiMeola's furious and impeccable technique is in rare form throughout this set, as he soars through lovely classical styled pieces to Latin sambas, to fiery jazz rock. Kudos to his two percussion players Adams and Ortiz, both of whom put in sterling and fun peformances, and complement the guitarist's style well. Keyboard player Parmisano is also an amazing talent, adding a sophisticated touch to Al's already haunting and beautiful pieces.
This is an excellent quality DVD, both picture and soundwise, and is highly recommended. Bonus features include a short documentary on the making of the DVD, as well as an Al DiMeola biography.
Track Listing
1) Innamorata
2) Misterio
3) Azzurra
4) Orient Blue
5) Rhapsody of Fire
6) This Way Before
7) One Night Last June
8) Fugatta
9) Libertango
10) Beyond the Mirage
11) Egyptian Danza
Bonus Features
Biography
Making Of
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