Ramirez -> RE: PDL in LONDON- any comments? (Nov. 23 2007 11:40:44)
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I was there last night - had a great seat in the second row. The concert, for me at least, was nothing short of inspiring. From the moment Paco strolled out on stage, sat down and his tunning noodles turned into a majestic and masterly rendition of Camaron, I was in awe. From the mellow thumb-stroke chords and melodic tremolo passages, right through to the blistering picado and percussive rasguados - he gave a masterclass: authentic, elegant and flawlessly executed. Can this guy still cut it? Without question. The first half of the show - it was incredible how full and intricate the sound was, using a paired down line up - Paco dominated the stage, playing solo and with percussion and cante. When you say you prefer the player he was to the player he is - I have to disagree! Now he is a player with over 40 years' experience to draw from. Last night, the sum of those forty years were projected out of his guitar. Paco mixed it all up - throwing falsetas in from all over the place. It was actually quite fun playing "spot the falseta"! There seemed to be a lot of improvisation, especially during the second half, when Paco and the band had a bit of fun and enjoyed some great interplay. Not just for chin stroking, this band actually sounded fun - passionate music - the audience and band seemed to be really getting in it - enjoying the unique atmosphere. The only questionable part - so bad it must have been intentional - was the inclusion of Van Halen "Jump" style synth accompanyment during cancion de amor! Paco and the band, unlike me, managed to keep a straight face throughout. Don't listen to the cynics. Paco doesn't deserve it. The fire's still there. In fact, the playing has gained a profound wisdom - it's actually quite humbling, even moving to hear. To be in the presense of greatness shouldn't be taken for granted. I just wanted to drink up every note. Wish I could see it again tonight... Manzmann, were you in the role of "official chair adjuster" during the interval? If so, You did a fine job.
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