Tony Marino explores tango’s rich history on the passionate “Tango Silhouette”. Over the course of the album Tony Marino opts for a wild, colorful approach to his sound. Every single flourish simply soars up into the sky with such tenderness and grace. Highly personal the way the songs unfurl reveal a lifelong devotion to the sound. Arrangements further prove this love as every single piece has its own unique personality, while fitting into an overall cohesive whole. Without needing to say a single word Tony Marino creates his own narrative, one that takes a look at his own family history in a way that feels so vibrant and real.
By far the true highlight of the entire album comes from Tony Marino’s incredible playing. Proving to have ample chops, he crafts absolutely stunning soundscapes. A great ear for melody is included within the album’s atmosphere. Refusing to completely bow to tradition however results in some rather joyful interludes. Throughout the entirety of the album Tony Marino’s unique approach recalls the similar effort of chamber pop group the Penguin Café Orchestra. Like that group, Tony Marino appears well versed in the classics while showing the willingness to push the sound further.
A stately grandeur introduces the album with the aptly named “Day Break”. Full of life the many patterns intermingle in such celebratory ways. Moodier in temperament is the ornate work of “Sylvana Gene And Stella Tango Medley”. Blissed out to its very core the dreamy disposition of “Lucia” perfectly captures a tropical mood with such style, as the instrumentally rich track feels so immersive. On “The Chancery Place Tango” Tony Marino chooses an intimate take, stripping the sound down to the absolute essentials.
Easily the highlight of the album comes from the fiery “Astor And Dizzy Tango Medley”. Within this singular piece, the piano playing has a profound quality to it as it builds up into a virtual force of nature. From the drums to the insistent rhythm it all works. Sweeping strings work wonders on the majestic approach of “A Different Time” where the drumming has a light, elastic touch to it. Wonderful sounds emanate from the delicate “The Layback Tango” where it all swirls about in such a gorgeous fashion. Layer upon layer of sound comes into the mix on the powerful “The Death Of A Romance”, lending the track a mournful aura. Nicely bringing everything to a close is the reflective “That’s It”.
Full of heart, Tony Marino sculpts a flawless updated take on tango with “Tango Silhouette”.
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