The American Clavé Recordings

Astor Piazzolla's The American Clavé Recordings is a landmark collection that brings together three seminal albums - Tango: Zero Hour, La Camorra: The Solitude of Passionate Provocation, and The Rough Dancer and the Cyclical Night (Tango Apasionado) - in a beautifully remastered box set. Originally released by American Clavé Records in the 1980s and reissued by Nonesuch over two decades ago, this compilation marks the first time these albums have been presented as a cohesive set.

This 3CD box set, released on 6 May 2022 via Nonesuch Records, is a testament to Astor Piazzolla's innovative and evocative approach to the tango genre. Featuring 31 tracks, including Tanguedia III, Milonga Del Angel, and Contrabajísimo, the collection showcases Piazzolla's mastery of the bandoneón and his ability to craft complex, emotionally charged compositions.

With its release, Astor Piazzolla: The American Clavé Recordings has been recognised with a Grammy nomination for Best Album Notes, a testament to the care and attention that has gone into curating this collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Astor Piazzolla or just discovering his music, this box set is an essential addition to any music collection, offering a comprehensive and immersive introduction to the artist's unique sound and style.

Astor Piazzolla, born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, in 1921, was a revolutionary figure in the world of tango music. As a virtuoso bandoneon player and composer, Piazzolla transformed traditional tango into a innovative style known as nuevo tango, blending elements of jazz and classical music. His compositions, characterized by their emotional depth and harmonic complexity, have left an indelible mark on the genre. Piazzolla's work, though controversial in his home country, has been celebrated worldwide, earning him the title of "the world's foremost composer of tango music" from American music critic Stephen Holden. His legacy continues to inspire, with his moody, evocative pieces captivating audiences and musicians alike.