Gustavo Leguizamón, El Cuchi Bien Temperado, Pablo Márquez

Gustavo “Cuchi” Leguizamón as played by classical guitarist Pablo Márquez (ECM New Series 2380)? Yes. El Cuchi Bien Temperado is an album of compositions for solo guitar beautifully arranged by Márquez from the zamba dance pieces of Argentinian poet, guitarist, pianist, composer Leguizamón (1917-2000) and played in an excellently vibrant manner.

Leguizamón was a folk innovator, adopting and internalizing the Argentinian zamba tradition but then adding modern elements harmonically and melodically. Like Bach's "Well-Tempered Clavier," the cycle of pieces as arranged by Márquez covers all 24 possible keys. They bring out the guitar sensibilities and brilliance of Márquez vividly in performances that reach out to the listener. And most importantly, the musical results stay with you on repeated hearings. It is marvelous music in definitive performances.

Any guitar enthusiast who is serious about the full range of possibilities needs to hear this one, both for the magnificence of the pieces and the sheer artistry of the guitarist.

Give yourself something new and fantastic. Grab this one!