Al Di Meola

New Jersey’s finest guitar player, Al Di Meola, ventured to Washington DC for a club performance near the waterfront. I enjoyed the unusual configuration of the band. He brought along a unusual band: Tabla player Amit Kavthekar, Drummer Richie Morales, and another classical guitar player. I was lucky, because I showed up late and still found a seat only about five feet away. Perfect to watch a master guitar player in his art.

There were some diehard fans who rejoiced every time Di Meola launched into his signature highs speed guitar runs, but luckily not too much of that–it can get overly technical and nonmusical. Mostly the music was tasteful and enjoyable. I especially liked his recent arrangements of Beatles songs. At times the interaction among Al, the tabla player and the drummer was great.

And Al’s New Jersey accent, mannerisms and stories makes him seem like someone I might have grown up with. Overall, I enjoyed the concert more than I thought I would.

I am on a great jazz guitar streak. The previous concert was Bill Frisell. Next: Julian Lage.

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