THE BEST OF AL DI MEOLA: MANHATTAN YEARS

For those who missed Al Di Meola's acoustic/synth period while on Capitol's Manhattan label, this is just about as perfect a summation of that era one could hope for. Between 1985 and 1987, Di Meola made a quiet but confident turn toward a deeper expression of his amazing talents by composing from a more introspective place. Taking revelry in his love of acoustic music but allowing relaxed washes of synthesizer to play about in the pieces, he created a new sound for himself and, consequently, a new kind of music.

The collection starts with the upbeat pop number 'July', but 'Traces of a Tear' from his Cielo e Terra album puts things squarly on path. 'Maraba' from the Tirami Su session with its South American flavors and beautiful vocals is a haunting ballad... and then the real fire begins. With the help of his fine band, keyboardist Kei Akagi, drummer Tommy Brechtlein, bassists Anthony Jackson & Harvey Schwartz, and Mino Cineilu on percussion, Di Meola acoustically reinterprets Chick Corea's opus 'Song to the Pharoah Kings' with power, a deft arrangement and delicate treatment. The solo is one of his most blistering and percussive machine-gunners, and the piece moves along effortlessly with rollercoaster thrills and hot Latin jams where all members shine bright. 'Etude' follows, a delicious solo performance on acoustic guitar, at once composed and improvised for seven minutes and a must hear for Di Meola lovers.

'Rhapsody of Fire' continues the hypnotic charm of this period with a joyous and complex Brazilian spirit. Keith Jarrett's 'Coral' is a sweet respite and 'Beijing Demons' refreshes with electronics, rock rhythms and some drop-dead playing from the master. This short interlude in Mr. Di Meola's career reflected inspiration & passion, and accomplished a flawless blend of South American fire with the soothing calm of the desert at night. His finest compilation and a thoroughly satisfying experience.