Rapsodia Mexicana
Bravo, 2024
9/10
The Mexican pianist Argentina Durán returns with a 2nd solo album, where her solo presence embraces Mexican composers from many eras and styles.
“Cuatro Danzas Mexicanas” opens with 4 chapters that illustrate fascinating and inviting finger acrobatics, as Durán draws us in to her unpredictable craft, and “Amar... (Nocturno)” follows with a dense backdrop, as a dreamy setting unfolds.
Deeper into the listen, “Padre” tugs on the heartstrings with its gorgeous and touching delivery, while “Danzas Nocturnas” uses 3 chapters to showcase the vivid key progressions and gripping storytelling that is rich with emotion.
The final piece, the title track, then exits with both firm and gentle moments of colorful and memorable piano that few others could replicate.
A diverse outing that illustrates romantic, nationalist and impressionist ideas, this is the first classical album produced in Mexico using immersive Dolby Atmos audio technology, and it illuminates an already excellent execution even further.
Travels well with: Kiki Valera- Vacilón Santiaguero; Randy Weinstein- Harmonimonk