Kai Strobel's "Neotango Episodes" is a captivating journey into the world of contemporary tango, released on March 17, 2023, under the Ars Produktion label. This 56-minute album is a fusion of traditional tango and modern arrangements, featuring the virtuoso performances of Kai Strobel on piano, Omar Massa on bandoneon, and Katharina Treutler on percussion.
The album opens with Omar Massa's "Tango Prelude No. 1," setting the stage for a series of eight sonorous pieces that rise above conventional stylistics. Astor Piazzolla's iconic "La Muerte del Angel" is reimagined for bandoneon, piano, and percussion, showcasing the trio's innovative approach. The titular "Neotango Episodes" are a highlight, with three distinct movements that push the boundaries of traditional tango.
Kai Strobel's arrangements of Darius Milhaud's "Scaramouche" for piano and percussion add a unique twist, with three movements that range from lively to moderate to a Brazilian-inspired finale. The "Buenos Aires Miniatures" offer a more intimate look at the city's tango culture, with four short pieces that evoke the spirit of the streets.
The album concludes with Omar Massa's arrangement of Piazzolla's "Escualo," a powerful piece that showcases the trio's dynamic range. "Neotango Episodes" is not just an album; it's an exploration of the tango genre, blending tradition with innovation and offering a fresh perspective on this beloved musical style.
Vinylscout