Al Di Meola Twentyfour 2LP

TAS Rated 4.5/5 Music, 4.5/5 Sonics in the October 2024 Issue of The Absolute Sound!

Al Di Meola's Twentyfour is a testament to creativity. Conceived during the tumultuous times of the Covid pandemic, what started as a simple acoustic project evolved into something much grander. Al's initial intention to craft a reflective acoustic album on the challenges of the time expanded exponentially as he found himself unable to resist the allure of boundless musical exploration.

Over the span of four years, Twentyfour blossomed into a masterpiece, brimming with intricately woven melodies, diverse instrumentation, and captivating highlights. It's a journey through Al's musical evolution, showcasing his virtuosity and vision in those special times. Each track is a moment within these four years and a contemporary witness to the events.

Lead single "Fandango" is an electrifying musical piece that cements Al Di Meola's status as a pioneering figure in the world of contemporary jazz and fusion. His technical prowess and emotive expression shines brightly in this exhilarating composition, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience its sonic tapestry. Drawing inspiration from traditional of flamenco music, "Fandango" fuses traditional elements with modern jazz sensibilities, resulting in a truly unique and captivating listening experience.

Twentyfour began life as an intimate acoustic meditation on a health crisis. The guitarist/composer's restless artistic shift to this kaleidoscopic offering is simultaneously disciplined, technically dazzling, lyrical, deeply moving, and above all, adventurous.

Di Meola's 40th album stands as his most ambitious since his 1980 double-vinyl set, Splendido Hotel.