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Di Meola enrolled at Berkless College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, and it was in 1974 that he joined a band called Return to Forever and stayed with until 1976. Di Meola would go on to explore many styles but stuck to his jazz-fusion compositions. He has also won the Best Jazz guitarist in Guitar Player Magazine’s Reader Poll.
Di Meola released his debut solo album “Land of the Midnight Sun” on October 25th 1976 through Columbia Records. The album made it to number 129 on the Billboard 200 chart and number 13 on the US Jazz chart. He wasted no time in heading back into the studio to work on his sophomore album “Elegant Gypsy” which was released in 1977, again, through Columbia Records, to peak at number 58 this time on the Billboard 200, and 5 on the US Jazz Chart. The album was later certified Gold. His third full-length album “Casino” would go on to earn similar chart success to its predecessor.
Al di Meola was always collaborating with artists, including when he collaborated with Paco de Lucia and John McLaughlin on an album called “The Guitar Trio” which went to number 1 on the Jazz Charts. His highest charting solo album was “Electric Rendezvous” which went to number 3 on the Jazz Charts.
Due to some earlier recordings, di Meola developed a reputation for being one of the fastest guitarists around, and has been hailed as a pioneer of shred guitar, influencing Yngwie Malmsteen, Richie Sambora from Bon Jovi and Dream Theater’s John Petrucci.
What a great set for his return to electric guitar. There was a mild delay during Senor Mouse due to technical issues with his pedalboard, about which he jested was originally the reason that he gave up his indomitable prowess and creativity on the electric for acoustic so many years ago. I will listen to whatever he plays.
Al was in rare form otherwise and they re-booted by performing Senor Mouse again even better than the first time. The highlights of the show for me were Senor Mouse near the beginning of the set, the acoustic solo work in the middle and, for obvious reasons, Race with Devil to cap the night off. The entire band was in lockstep unison and fed really well off each other, given the technical issues, and I would say the problems may have added to the entertainment factor as Al kept us all laughing during the hiccups with pokes at his guitar tech and roadie as they nearly take center stage for a portion of the act.
The meet and greet after the show was absolutely the best part. Al came out about 10 mins after the show ended and took pictures and signed autographs with the VIPs which included a free signed copy of Elegenat Gypsy on CD (Made in America, yall!). Mark one off my top 5 bucket list.
yargnad
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