Pablo Villegas, Americano

Today we have an album by a fabulous classical guitarist. Pablo Villegas is his name. Americano (Harmonia Mundi 907649) is the name of the album. This is music of the Americas, South, Central and North. It is a nice assortment of music played with real artistry by Maestro Villegas. If you don't know of him, you certainly should. And this is a good place to get to know his wonderful playing.

We get Villa-Lobos "Etudes," selections from Bernstein's "West Side Story," something classic from Pedro Elías-Gutiérrez, a samba by Luiz Bonfá, a tango by Antonio Lauro, a John Williams piece in premier, some roots North American music adopted by Earl Scruggs and readopted by Pablo, and more besides.

The program covers much ground and the musicality of Villegas wins the day decisively in the end. He is a superb artist and his playing will win you over without a doubt.

This is one beautiful album! It is a near perfect melding of artistry and a re-presentation of music we either have never heard or have never heard quite like this before. Very recommended.