Al Di Meola Splendid Hotel ( HQ 180g vinyl 2LP )

Released date: 17-02-2016(originally released in 1980)

2016 EU reissue HQ 180g vinyl 2LP - Talk about ambitious. This two-LP set finds guitarist Al di Meola performing with his quintet of the time (featuring keyboardist Philippe Saisse), with studio musicians, solo, in a reunion with pianist Chick Corea, singing a love song, and welcoming veteran Les Paul for a version of "Spanish Eyes." Most of the music works quite well and it shows that di Meola (best-known for his speedy rock-oriented solos) is a surprisingly well-rounded and versatile musician.

Tracks: (2LP)
A1 Alien Chase On Arabian Desert
A2 Silent Story In Her Eyes
A3 Roller Jubilee

B1 Two To Tango
B2 Al Di's Dream Theme
B3 Dinner Music Of The Gods

C1 Splendido Sundance
C2 I Can Tell
C3 Spanish Eyes

D1 Isfahan
D2 Bianca's Midnight Lullaby

Just how much creative gunpowder had Al Di Meola ignited in his early career? First of all there was the flamenco fireworks in the best-seller Elegant Gypsy (1977), and secondly his mega-successful live album resulting from a summit meeting in San Francisco with Paco de Lucia and John McLaughlin.

After this great start it was no wonder that such prominent colleagues as Jan Hammer, Chick Corea, Steve Gadd, Anthony Jackson and Les Paul were eager to participate in the present album Splendido Hotel (1980). This great line-up of musicians produce a rich, saturated sound and create numerous 'flavors' in this cocktail of sounds, which - as a double LP - can be likened to a fantastic long drink. Di Meola's idea of fusion starts off in the opening number as a slow, sluggish oriental-like melody, which develops to take on a rock rhythm.

High-speed and lovingly detailed flamenco such as is found in "Splendido Sundance" alternates with subtle rhythms ("Two To Tango") and good-humored lighter numbers with an electronic undertone such as "Roller Jubilee" and a funky version of Bert Kaempfert's "Spanish Eyes". With this great mix, the musicians create a wonderful atmosphere in which every Latin aficionado will feel right at home.

Musicians:
Al Di Meola (guitar)
Chick Corea (piano)
Les Paul (guitar)
Jan Hammer / Philippe Saisse (synthesizer, keyboard)
Anthony Jackson / Tim Landers (bass)
Robbie Gonzalez / Steve Gadd (drums)
Mingo Lewis / Eddie Colon (percussion)
Carol Shive (viola)
David Campbell (violin)