Alfredo Marcucci, Ensemble Piacevole – Touched By Tango (2002) [SACD / Channel Classics – CCS SA 17202]
Title: Alfredo Marcucci, Ensemble Piacevole – Touched By Tango (2002)
Genre: Classical Chamber, Tango
Format: MCH SACD ISO
Astor Piazzolla redefined tango, becoming its global ambassador through his innovative style. Touched by Tango by Alfredo Marcucci, released in 2002 on Channel Classics, was recorded in Belgium in 2001. Marcucci, an Argentine bandoneón master (1930–2010), collaborated with the Belgian string quintet Ensemble Piacevole. Piacevole, typically a classical string quartet with a bassist, explores expanded repertoires. The album, inspired by Piazzolla’s tango transformations, includes five of his works, avoiding his most famous pieces. Piazzolla’s Five Tango Sensations, his final recording for the Kronos Quartet, is featured. Two tracks are by Marcucci, and two by Argentine composer Francisco de Caro. The quintet’s rich sound, enhanced by surround mix, creates an immersive experience. This album follows the success of Piacevole and Marcucci’s 1997 release Timeless Tango. Piazzolla’s harmonic and melodic freedoms, akin to jazz, shine through Marcucci’s passionate bandoneón.