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«Quartango Compadres» finds a special spot in my collection

Mark Hammond | Chambersburg, PA USA | 11/27/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Tango, both traditional and contemporary. It continues to amaze me that tango of this quality comes from Montréal. I am proud to say that now I own this group's complete discography with the purchase of this disk. Their music is good not just for the quality of that music, but also for the *passion* that shows in their performance. As a group, Quartango has changed over the years, but one thing that has not changed has been the quality of the music. Joining Quartango for this disk is flautist Robert Cram, formerly principal of the National Arts Centre Orchestra of Ottawa.What distinguishes this disk from others of the tango genre is the inclusion of original compositions written and arranged by members of the group. Along with the traditional favorites by Piazzola, Gardel, and de Caro, we have works by two of Quartango's own: Richard Hunt (pianist) "Barracuda" and Mario Leblanc (accordionist) "Androgyne," "Adagio, tango & fuga," as well as "Tohu-bohu." All arrangements were by either Richard Hunt or Mario Leblanc. Tangueros are all familiar with the different tempos of the Argentine tango, vals (waltz), and milonga, and they will not be disappointed. The waltzes include Leblanc's "Androgyne," a slow contemporary style waltz; and Hunt's "Barracuda," a jazzy waltz which is danceable as either a Viennese or Argentinean (tango) waltz. The traditional pieces are wonderful in their own right. I find the music wonderfully danceable, and I feel that it would have appeal to my friends who are jazz aficionados.I cannot say enough about Robert Cram's work on this disk. It alone is reason to purchase the disk. It is not often that the work of a flautist is featured on a tango album. Too often we hear the tango music that is just piano, base, violin and bandonéon. The flute provides a nice addition to tango music. I have always loved the flute in jazz, and Cram does a great job in his interpretation of Hunt's arrangements of Piazzola's Bordel 1900, Cafe 1930, Nightclub 1960, and Concert 1990."

Beautifully Crafted, something for everyone.

laroja | London, UK | 02/27/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I'll keep mine short(er). This is an extrodinarily beautiful album, the music will satisfy both tangueros and the rest of the world. Particularly lovely is the first track, a Satie-like Waltz "Androgyne". I play it a lot and find something new in it each time, the arrangements are so well crafted and there is such a great range of tangos. I especially like the new compositions. Go and buy it!"