Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Sergio and Odair Assad
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Free Music Notes for Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Sergio and Odair Assad
Free Music Review: A splendid ensemble
Hit: 5 Stars
Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg is a virtuoso by any measure, and the musical prowess of Sergio and Odair Assad is astonishing. If you expect the combination of the Assad Duo with Salerno-Sonnenberg might result in a supremely gratifying treatise of what can really be done with two guitars and a violin, you won't be disappointed. This combination of great performers equals far more than the sum as this recording simply overflows with music.His compositional and arranging abilities probably overlooked, Sergio Assad brings new excitement and possibilities to the listener in this trio setting. The Assads, far and away the best classical guitar duo, have long enjoyed Sergio's works in a duo setting. While no strangers to mixed ensembles (Odiar and Sergio have in the past coupled with Yo-Yo Ma and others), this recording raises the bar, bringing what might be the best trio ensemble CD this year. Sergio as a composer shows thorough familiarity with the possibilities the violin creates, and Sonnenberg does not disappoint. Her wondrous play weaves so easily from sultry tone to powerful insistence that one nearly forgets everything else.
Often the spirit of the tango is present (Andalucia), along with flashes of flamenco (The Chase). In (Tatras), what sounds like a dreamlike Irish melody can be heard giving way to an almost oriental song, while beautiful eastern melodies ranging from the tragic (Fantasy on Dark Eyes) to the wild (Istanbul: Awakening and Turkish Dance) are abundant. The selection of short Gypsy Songs are glimpses of both somber reflection and whimsical delight. This CD is really a joy to hear and every hearing of it seems to give something new. Refreshing compositions driven by absolutely superb playing - Very highly recommended.
Free Music Review: Astonishing lyricism
Hit: 5 Stars
Like the fellow from San Francisco, I too had the rare opportunity to see Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg perform this music live with the Assad Brothers in a small pub (in New York). I am a long time fan who travels to her concerts but until now, I had never heard her in such an intimate environment, away from the often accoustically horrible concert hall cage. Here, with the extraordinary Assad Brothers, she filled the room with an astonishing lyricism, raising gypsy spirits to life and making them dance like figures in Chagall. Every bit of that is captured on this album. The melodic theme of the folk melody Dark Eyes confirms her affinity with the Russian soul (I think of her version of the second movement of the Tchaik concerto and feel a kind of spiritual cocaine rush - why hasn't she recorded this? Somebody please do it! ). With the Assads, and particularly the arranging/composing genius of Sergio Assad, she has found perfect collaborators for her violin vocalises. I have been listening to this album non-stop since that night like a spiritual IV drip. It's worth noting that her recent movement in recordings (since her association with the Aspen Music Festival) toward trio or chamber ensemble music has brought a multitude of riches. The best album to date.Free Music Review: Fiery!
Hit: 5 Stars
I've been a great fan of the Odair Assad's compositions since hearing the "Natsu no Niwa" (Did I get the title right?) suite they released a few years back. This album was not disappointing at all. Odair has a wonderful, lyrical sensitivity and does justice to the various Spanish folk themes, evoking fiery passion and beauty within an intimate setting. A critic once called the Assad Bros. a "four-armed guitar virtuoso," and he was right on the money with that. Ms. Salerno-Sonnenberg's playing is absolutely stunning and is perfectly on par with the Brothers' virtuosic ability. I truly hope that Odair will compose regularly, and not just for the guitar either!Free Music Review: Outrageously exciting
Hit: 5 Stars
We saw them live in 2nd row in San Francisco's Bimbo's club, a small and intimate setting; from up close the combination of Nadja's virtuoso play with the emotional intensity of her playing sent shivers down our spines. The interplay with the Assad brothers was very dynamic and balanced. The album captures the atmosphere of the live performance beautifully.Free Music Review: The Best
Hit: 5 Stars
This is the best album of the new milenium! Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg and the Assads have made a beautiful, touching, romantic and inspiring record. All real Gypsy music, not the stuff you hear in a cheap restaruant, each track is rich and full of passion. This is an absolute must have! BUY THIS CD! and hear for yourself, you won't be sorry!
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