Astor Piazzola: Next Tango (2007)

 Symphonic Piazzolla
Part of the problem reviewing an Astor Piazzolla DVD is that one is tempted to give it five stars merely because it exists. Though Piazzolla lived and performed into the early 1990s, there seems to be precious few concert films extant. If more are in the vaults, perhaps those who own them are keeping them secret for future commercial gain. I bought Next Tango about the time of its release and have watched it a number of times in order to digest it thoroughly before writing about it.
The DVD is just under an hour and a half long and is roughly divided between the concert and the interview, which is itself interspersed with music footage that illustrates what Piazzolla happens to be discussing at the moment. Indeed, some of that footage is more exciting than the concert which follows. Subtitles in several languages are available, those English speakers who also understand some Spanish may want to avail themselves of the opportunity to listen to Piazzolla sans subtitles as his manner of speaking is very clear and easy to follow. As the previous reviewer said, the interview is key to better knowledge and understanding of Piazzolla.
Though the music itself is flawlessly performed and ably conducted, I would have chosen a different setlist had it been up to me. Adios Nonino is rather de rigeuer and it would have been nice to hear something else, perhaps a coupling of Soledad and Finale.
Next Tango is a great DVD for those whose taste for Piazzolla leans toward his classical excursions. I like those, but I prefer his jazzier side as well as his more straightforward material. I give it just four stars because with only about forty-five minutes of music, the listener is left far from satiated. December 22, 2007

 Tango Nuevo Insights
The main interest are the interviews. Piazzola is not well known and these are at least an introduction. I rather liked the information as to the bandoneon history.
The music is all staged and could have been better if performances. The playing quality is fine but then so is a cd. July 12, 2007

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