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Charlie Parker in jazz,
Astor Piazzolla was a risk-taking explorer whose brand of tango was considered quite radical in his native Argentina, yet gradually gained more and more acceptance. But as daring and unorthodox as his music was by Argentinian standards, the distinctive
Piazzolla was always true to the basics of tango, and could be as hauntingly romantic as more traditional tango artists. "Oblivion," "Los Suenos," "Tristeza, Separacion" and other melancholy gems on this stunning CD show why the late instrumentalist (who played the bandoneon, an accordion-like instrument) commanded such reverence among his followers. ~ Alex Henderson