Danca Dos Escravos

Egberto Gismonti's work is rooted in the very air of his native Brazil, in its convulsive history and rich terrain. Danca dos Escravos, or "Dance of the Slaves," is inspired by the early history of conquest and bondage, with each of his pieces inspired by a narrative of that history. Spanish, Indian, and African elements all fuse in these performances, creating rich weaves of contrapuntal melody and complex rhythms. Gismonti plays only guitars here, rather than his usual mix of guitar and piano, and it focuses the CD, making this perhaps his most beautiful and personal statement. The extended title track is the most striking in a series of works that have both grace and emotional reserves made more poignant by the restraint. --Stuart Broomer