Sketches of Spain
I’m really amazed by Sketches of Spain these days. I’d compare Aranjuez Concerto to Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture or Ellington’s Harlem (maybe also Isfahan).
But: greatly instrumented by Gil Evans masterpiece is… well, I’d say is worth to hear as much as original Rodrigo’s composition. Both are impressive and pleasant for ears. Btw, what do you think about additional bonus tracks added uppon reissue in 2000? When I’m starting to hear the other Aranjuez the very first thought is: “for God’s sake Miles, you’re out of tune! why did they put it here?!”. Hey, really. Hist first part is just wrong (yeah, maybe I’m oversensitive).
Let me put this straight: I really like this music but as music that is easy to reception.
Other thing (I’m really gonna be an ashole here) - for me the only sign of Spanish here are drums and the names of two great Spanish composers that originaly composed Aranjuez and Will o’ the Wisp (Rodrigo and de Falla).
Another reason to remeber this album: “Don’t play what’s there, play what’s not there”. Had no idea it’s so hard to convince classical musicians to improvise.
