Distancias
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"Julio Azcano's Distancias is a captivating compilation of solo guitar performances featuring carefully crafted originals and intricate introspective arrangements. Azcano grew up in Argentina, a musical environment known for its deep-seated tradition in the guitar. He holds two degrees, one in Classical Guitar completed in Mar del Plata near Buenos Aires, and the other in Jazz and Improvisation from the Zurich University of the Arts. As a solo artist or as a member of the critically acclaimed Eos Guitar Quartet, Azcano has performed at festivals across the globe. He has shared the stage with renowned performers from Leo Brouwer to Dino Saluzzi. Distancias is a recording inspired by his extensive travels taking the listener on diverse and enchanting musical explorations. Not since Ralph Towner has a guitarist so fully integrated sophisticated jazz improvisation within the framework of the classical guitar. The title track begins with soft deliberate melodic phrases, followed by dramatic rhythmic motifs and ending with thoughtful meditative sequences. Like Pat Metheny's acoustical work, Azcano creatively uses space and silence to build and enhance his reflective performances. "Los Girasoles" is a modern, dissident exercise and serves as a platform for the guitarist's sophisticated compositional and virtuosic talents. "Orbitaciones" (on a theme by K. Rosenwikel) features rapid rhythmic sequences flanked by incendiary single note passages. While "Spanish Stars" offers an elegant reading of Paul McCandless's gorgeous ballad. The album culminates with two "Polymetric Studies" written by Dusan Bogdanovic showcasing fiery percussive pyrotechnics and graceful reflective interludes. The pieces serve as an appropriate culmination to an album that is both elaborate and accessible. There is a timeless quality to this music, transcending eras or genres that is neither antiquated nor ephemeral. Julio Azcano's Distancias is an alluring union of eclectic compositions and brilliantly executed performances and is highly recommended for all fans of acoustic music." - James Scott, Minor7th.com