[Smooth Jazz, Guitar] Steve Erquiaga - Cafe Paradiso (1997) [APE]

Steve Erquiaga - Cafe Paradiso (1997)
| APE+CUE | 218MB | Smooth Jazz, Guitar | PolyGram Records | Covers |

Released in 1997 by PolyGram Records, Cafe Paradiso is a captivating instrumental album by acclaimed jazz and fusion guitarist Steve Erquiaga. Known for his expressive tone and refined technique, Erquiaga presents an entirely acoustic recording, performed solely on nylon-string guitar. This project is a heartfelt tribute to both classical and cinematic music, blending timeless compositions with his own original works in a seamless and soulful journey.

The album opens with Bach’s “Presto” from Sonata for Solo Violin No. 1 in G minor, skillfully reimagined for guitar with precision and clarity. Erquiaga’s interpretations of Fauré’s “Sicilienne” and “Après un Rêve” reveal his lyrical touch and emotional depth, while Rachmaninov’s “Serenade” and Chopin’s Preludes highlight his ability to convey the romantic nuances of piano works on a single instrument. The gentle resonance of Bach’s “Arioso” and Prelude in C Minor further showcase his deep respect for Baroque elegance.

Among the classical gems, Erquiaga introduces two originals — “If Dreams Could Dance” and “Under the Tuscan Sun” — which flow effortlessly alongside the masters, demonstrating his gift for melodic storytelling and harmonic sophistication. The album’s centerpiece, themes from Ennio Morricone’s Cinema Paradiso, is rendered with warmth and nostalgia, capturing the emotional essence of the film’s score. The closing track, Ravel’s “Pavane for a Dead Princess”, provides a reflective and graceful conclusion.

Cafe Paradiso is more than a showcase of virtuosity; it is an intimate, meditative experience that bridges classical tradition with contemporary sensibility. Ideal for lovers of smooth jazz, acoustic guitar, and classical crossover, this album invites listeners to unwind in a serene soundscape of beauty and introspection.

Tracklist:
01. Bach / Presto - Sonata for solo violin No. 1 in G minor, BWV 1001 (04:05)
02. Faure / Sicilienne - For cello & piano, Op. 78 (03:44)
03. Bach / Arioso (03:25)
04. Rachmaninov / Serenade - Morceaux de fantaisie, for piano, Op. 3 (06:07)
05. Faure / After a Dream - Song for voice & piano, Op. 7/1 (03:54)
06. Bach / Prelude in C Minor - Well-Tempered Clavier (02:12)
07. Erquiaga, Steve / If Dreams Could Dance (04:27)
08. Chopin / Two Preludes: Prelude in E Minor No. 4 / Prelude in C Minor No. 20 (03:44)
09. Morricone / Themes from Cinema Paradiso: First Youth / Love Theme for Nata (04:21)
10. Erquiaga, Steve / Under the Tuscan Sun (04:53)
11. Ravel / Pavane for a Dead Princess (06:01)

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