I'm a big fan of guitarist Jason Vieaux, especially his recordings of South American composers and Bach. His new CD is really outstanding, so much more than just a collection of encore pieces. In his fine liner notes Vieaux shows a personal connection to each piece. He explains how particular composers and performers have helped him perfect his own art as a guitarist. My favourite pieces in this collection include Tom Jobim's Felicidade arranged by Roland Dyens, the Ponce version of the classic Mexican tune Por Ti Mi Corazon, and Vieaux's own arrangement of Duke Ellington's In a Sentimental Mood. The Ellington piece is cleverly designed for solo guitar, and Vieaux provides the proper amount of swing as well as the requisite elegance. I enjoyed listening to this track along with Duke's own recordings while I read Terry Teachout's excellent new biography Duke: A Life of Duke Ellington.
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