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Title: Al Di Meola – Flesh On Flesh (2002)
Genre: Jazz
Format: MCH SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

Al Di Meola’s Flesh on Flesh, his fourth Telarc album, expands his musical horizons. He’s joined by World Sinfonia members Gumbi Ortiz (percussion) and Mario Parmisano (keyboards), plus Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Alejandro Santos, and bassist Anthony Jackson. Di Meola plays various guitars, including a Les Paul, Stratocaster, and Conde-Romano acoustic, delivering timeless, memorable lines. The eight compositions, like “Flesh on Flesh,” “Zona Desperata,” and “Fugata,” are masterful. In “Flesh on Flesh,” Di Meola plays five instruments, while “Fugata” features a Fender Rhodes duet with Rubalcaba. The album captures the live energy of Di Meola’s performances in a fresh context. Each track celebrates new musical forms, rhythmic reinterpretations, and Di Meola’s virtuosic guitar sound. The compositions reflect beauty, culture, and sensual imagery that inspire him. Flesh on Flesh blends dynamic concepts and technological updates seamlessly. It’s a must-have for fans of Di Meola’s inimitable style.

hraudio | allmusic | discogs

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Title: Al Di Meola – Elegant Gypsy (1977) [Japanese Reissue 2001]
Genre: Jazz
Format: SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

Guitarist Al di Meola’s second record as a leader is generally an explosive affair, although it does have a fair amount of variety. With Jan Hammer or Barry Miles on keyboards, electric bassist Anthony Jackson, drummer Lenny White (Steve Gadd takes his place on the “Elegant Gypsy Suite”), and percussionist Mingo Lewis on most of the selections, di Meola shows off his speedy and rock-ish fusion style. He was still a member of Return to Forever at the time and was a stronger guitarist than composer, but di Meola did put a lot of thought into this music. The brief “Lady of Rome, Sister of Brazil” (an acoustic guitar solo) and “Mediterranean Sundance” (an acoustic duet with fellow guitarist Paco de Lucía) hints at di Meola’s future directions. A near classic in the fusion vein.

hraudio | allmusic | discogs

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Title: Al Di Meola – Consequence Of Chaos (2006)
Genre: Jazz
Format: MCH SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

Al Di Meola’s Consequence of Chaos marks a partial return to his solid-body electric guitar, but it’s not as intense as his landmark early jazz fusion albums. The album blends electric guitar with world music influences, featuring collaborations with Chick Corea, Steve Gadd, and Barry Miles. Di Meola’s distinctive style unifies diverse approaches, from prog to acoustic to electric, with a classy, authoritative touch. Tracks like “Tao” are complex yet accessible, avoiding predictability or pretension. His restrained yet precise Latin-infused guitar solos balance intensity and subtlety, driving the album’s success. Four brief solo interludes, with Di Meola playing all instruments, contrast the busier ensemble tracks. Percussionists Ernie Adams and Gumbi Ortiz shine, especially on the subtle “Hypnose.” Corea’s appearances on two tracks, including the acoustic duet “Cry for You,” are standout moments. The nine-minute “Tempest,” Di Meola’s most complex composition, showcases his virtuosic skill across shifting moods and rhythms. After 30 years, Consequence of Chaos proves Di Meola remains at the peak of his artistry.

hraudio | allmusic | discogs

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