Search - Jorge Morel, Ariel Ramirez, Eduardo Falu :: Aire Latino: Latin American Music for Guitar

Thoughtful, Sensitive, and Skillful

David V. Stewart | Fresno, CA USA | 08/07/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a great performance for the very versatile David Russell. His playing is thoughtful and expressive, but also sensitive and not overly extraverted. His use of rubato is excellent on most tracks, and his constant contrast of dynamics, as well as vibrato, give the pieces on this album real life and emotion.



I had been performing 5 of the tracks on this album when it came out, so I can attest to the difficulty of many of these pieces, especially all three movements of the Morel "Sonatina." I can also say that his performances of these is very true; I could hear no incorrect notes , with the exception of some added notes in the first movement of "Sonatina," which I have since adopted myself for my own performance. His expressive interpretation is likewise impeccable on these tracks.



This record would be a great purchase for anyone interested in classical guitar, whether they are just getting into the genre or already have a large collection, or anyone interested in Latin American art music."

Fine Latino Potpourri

David V. Stewart | 03/26/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Fine collection of Latin music. Russell brings them to life with his excellent skills and clear, bright sound. I haven't heard close to 70% of these pieces on any other recording or performance before; it's always nice to hear new (to me anyway) and interesting music. My favorites in this collection are: Danza Brasilera, La Cuartalera, Interrogando, Seis por Derecho, Vals Peruano, and Chopi, which are all on the upbeat side. However, there are several slower and more melancholy pieces that are beautiful as well."

Transcendent Pleasure

Fred Thotler | Central Texas | 04/26/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Perfect! One will very rarely discover an album as finely constructed as this. The performer stands at the pinnacle of his profession, one who demonstrates mastery of the instrument and intimate understanding of the music. The selections are interesting, fresh and never boring. There is delight in the listening from beginning to end. Mr. Russell is quite simply astonishing as he unerringly takes the listener on a journey of unalloyed beauty. This is a disc you will relish again and again. If you love the guitar, you must have it."