Mezcolanza
Jim Graham
Green Cottage Music
1996
21 tracks
In his liner notes, Jim Graham explains that the word mezcolanza is Spanish for medley and refers to his own selection of tunes for this CD release as "a mozaic of music from various cultures." The result is a delightful, if somewhat eccentric, international potpourri of musical treats. The selection includes Celtic music, English compositions written originally for the lute, traditional flamenco pieces, German and Italian classical works, and even two Scottish pieces meant to be played on bagpipes.
In Mezcolanza, Graham has drawn together diverse musical elements and assembled them into a beguiling and pleasing "mosaic of music" best suited those quiet times at home. This is music to read or meditate by — a quiet progression of virtuoso performances on the acoustic guitar. It is easy to understand how, upon hearing Mezcolanza, owners of small clubs and restaurants in all parts of Ontario have been hiring Jim Graham to provide their music.
Graham’s professionalism and love for the music comes through clearly in his expressive execution of these songs. Although many of these songs are by their very nature quiet and contemplative, there is an energy to Graham’s playing which brings each song momentum and vitality that makes it a joy to hear.
Often it is not clear that only one guitar is being played, and the sound is of two instruments: one playing the lead or melody part while the other provides the underlying rhythm or harmony. At other times, the playing will have almost the sound of a harpsichord. In the bagpipe and Celtic pieces, Graham manages somehow, to keep the skirling feel of the pipes in his playing while using his lower notes to maintain an underlying bagpipe-like drone.
Jim Graham’s Mezcolanza is available at HMV record stores across Canada.
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Review written: 1997
Last modified: February 14, 2004
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