Search - Venezuelan Composers, John Williams (Performer) :: El Diablo Suelto - Guitar Music of Venezuela

Another brilliant collection of ethnic music for guitar

Ian Wright | Atlanta, GA | 09/23/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"John Williams has done more to expand the horizons and repertoire of the guitar than any other classical guitarist of our time. Following up on the African-inspired Magic Box, Diablo takes us to Venezuela where the sounds of the guitar are lively, fast-paced and carry a little of the feel of flamenco (some might disagree rather vigorously, but that's just how it strikes me). As always, Williams' technique and expressiveness are a perfect blend of impeccable mastery and artistic sensitivity to the spirit of the music. In those pieces where he plays with other musicians, he shows a keen appreciation for the merits of their instruments. The conversation between Williams and the other players is well-balanced and brings an appreciation for the number of obscure but highly gifted musicians out there. Unlike Magic Box, most of the pieces are for solo guitar and as far as Williams fans go, that's just fine. I found the style of music to be different than that of his previous album From the Jungles of Paraguay. That album was of course dedicated to the marvelous gems of Augustin Barrios, but don't think that Diablo is more of the same. It isn't. As for Sony, I can't say how pleased I am by the superb effort they put into the the recording of Williams' albums. Most classical guitar recordings sound as though they were made at the bottom of a swamp, but Sony consistently produces albums with unsurpassed clarity, capturing the wide tonal colors of the classical guitar more faithfully than most labels. My hat's off to them."

Amazing new recording

Luis C. Diaz | Mason, Ohio | 01/20/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Let me start saying that I am Venezuelan and I have had the chance to see many guitar players perform many of the songs selected in this CD. I can honestly say that the performaces presented by John Williams rank among the best ones I have listen in a long time. The song arragements were done by another giant of the classical guitar, Alirio Diaz, a venezuelan guitarrist that has taken classical guitar music to a higher level. The result is a recording full of live and emotion, as well as, technical mastery. This a true guitar document that presents Venezuela's musical legacy to the guitar world. I just hope that Mr Williams is willing to do another CD with more of this music."

Williams at the Top of His Form!

J. D. Patchick | Petaluma, California USA | 06/24/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Hi classical guitar fans. This is the first time I've decided to write a few words for Amazon. This recording has moved me to add a few words to the roster. I would like to convey something that perhaps is missing from the other commentary. This album rises above the usual "good recording", by Mr. Williams. We have here a CD that is the rare combination of all the right elements that combine to make it into the most hoped for "favorite record" status.It is that good! I sensed it right away when I played it for the first time through. Every song is a gem, perfectly played and follows in the 'right' order. The producers have very cleverly managed to time the space between the tracks to be very minute, and so the music flows wonderfully from one song to the next.Both my mother and father are in love with this CD as much as I am! They play it over and over. My mother (who is 70) counts it as one of her favorite recordings of all time. Folks, this is truly a winner."