Immerse yourself in the rich, evocative sounds of Brazil with "Melodia Sentimental," a captivating collection of guitar works by the legendary Heitor Villa-Lobos, masterfully performed by Yasuji Ohagi. This album, released on October 20, 2022, under the MARCO CREATORS label, is a testament to Villa-Lobos' enduring influence and Ohagi's virtuosic skill.
The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, featuring a diverse range of compositions that showcase Villa-Lobos' unique blend of Brazilian folk music and classical techniques. The tracklist includes the complete "Brazilian Folk Song Suite," a series of five pieces that pay homage to traditional Brazilian dances and melodies. Each movement, from the lively "Mazurka-Choro" to the elegant "Gavotte-Choro," offers a distinct flavor of Brazilian musical culture.
A highlight of the album is the inclusion of Villa-Lobos' "12 Etudes," a set of technical and expressive pieces that push the boundaries of the guitar. Ohagi's performances of these etudes are nothing short of breathtaking, demonstrating his deep understanding of Villa-Lobos' compositional style and his own exceptional technical prowess.
In addition to these well-known works, the album also features some lesser-known gems, including the recently discovered "Vals-Choro" and "Choros No. 1," as well as a guitar arrangement of "Melodia Sentimental" from Villa-Lobos' late vocal and orchestral work "The Forest of the Amazon." These pieces add depth and variety to the album, showcasing the breadth of Villa-Lobos' musical output.
Throughout the album, Ohagi's playing is marked by a deep sensitivity to the music and a keen ear for detail. His interpretations are both technically impressive and musically nuanced, bringing out the unique character of each piece. Whether you're a longtime fan of Villa-Lobos' music or a newcomer to his work, "Melodia Sentimental" is sure to captivate and inspire. So, sit back, relax, and let the enchanting melodies and rhythms of Brazil transport you to another world.
Vinylscout