Elysium

Al di Meola is one of the jazz world's most influential guitarists, having honed his skills on the instrument for over three decades. Elysium shows that he has no plan to slow down anytime soon. The album features fourteen songs that unite contemporary acoustic guitar playing with jazz elements and a touch of ethnic flavor. All of those elements are heard on the opening track alone, which also includes a bluesy flair, some Spanish percussion and plenty of passion. Di Meola also explores more nuanced, moodier pieces like 'Purple and Gold' and 'Elysium.' Across the board, his guitar is the focal point, with all backing instrumentation (percussion, keyboards, piano) acting as an accent.