"Passionata" - A unique blend of musical cultures played in both traditional and comtemporary styles. Evocative melodies and passionate improvisation of the Spanish guitar act as the voice of these songs. This, infused with the seductive tones of fretless and acoustic bass plus a range of percussive instruments, has gone to create this CD.
The CD features Mark playing all guitar parts, with guest musicians, including Phil Harwin and Dave Beazer playing bass and percussion, and is quite unique in it's abilitiy to seamlessly blend musical styles, cultures and genres, whilst retaining the elements of passion and 'realness' associated with the guitar.
01
Fiesta Latina
This piece has a distinctly Latin-American / Salsa feel, complete with infectious rhythms, memorable melodies and harmony lines provided by the guitar.
02
Manana
The journey through Latin-America continues, but this piece of music has a much more laid-back feel, reminiscent of Buena Vista Social Club.
03
Tangos
We now travel east to Spain, with a new take on a traditional Spanish Tangos, one of the many memorable Flamenco styles. The piece is kept moving with percussion from Dave, which allows some melodic interplay between Marks guitar lines and Phil's bass part.
04
Passionata
This piece has a more mellow, relaxed feel, with the guitar melody taking you away into a Sunday afternoon Siesta.
05
Fandangos
From its opening melody of an almost ethereal nature, this piece of music takes you on a Spanish journey blending some traditions of the 'Fandangos' Flamenco toque with light and shade, climaxing with the exciting blend of percussion, bass, guitars and bouzouki.
06
Tierra de los Suenos
Journey to a place of beauty, peace, tranquillity and imagination. Welcome to tierra de los suenos (the land of dreams).
07
Santorini
Imagine yourself in a Greek taverna, on the edge of the great Caldera with that huge sweeping vista - being serenaded by a guitarist playing something decidedly Greek.
08
Senor Rumba
One of the most popular styles of Flamenco outside Spain - as has been proved by the Gypsy Kings - this has foot-tapping rhythms and a catchy harmonised introduction.
09
Rivendell
Inspired by the film (Lord of the Rings), this piece features a hypnotic, almost mystical melody played by Ailia, the songs composer, on the penny whistle.
10
Omar's Journey
Let the mellow, seductive nature of the Spanish guitar take your on a journey full of musical emotion.
11
Desert Sunrise
With a unique blend of musical styles, the piece of music is one to conjure up images in the minds eye - to take you on a journey. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
12
Ish
'Ish' follows on from Desert Sunrise, with a definite Eastern feel, hinting at some of the styles often incorporated in the Zambra style of Flamenco.
Passionata and Exotica CDs are now available to purchase at www.guitarcds.net
