Antonio Mascolo’s fusion of classical, jazz, and Spanish on the classical guitar
The album "DUNE" showcases Antonio Mascolo's remarkable talent for spontaneous improvisation, which serves as the foundation for his compositions. Each piece on the album was crafted by Antonio, with the trio of guitar, bass, and percussion playing a central role in his creative process. A deep focus on rhythm drives the composition, with intricate rhythmic patterns and pulsations becoming the primary elements that draw in the listener. Many of the pieces are inspired by a particular mood, image, person, or other tangible sources of inspiration.
The album's cornerstone is the track “My Song”. As the title implies, this piece is significant in Antonio Mascolo’s artistic journey. He explains that “My Song” marked a turning point in his career, when he began to dedicate more time to composing his own music and deepened his understanding of creating for the classical guitar. This piece invites listeners to explore their own personal interpretation of what “My Song” means to them.
One notable track on "DUNE" is “Homage to Jarrett”, a tribute to the legendary pianist Keith Jarrett, who has been a profound influence on Antonio's musical development. The piece reflects Jarrett’s influence through its masterful rhythmic complexity and serves as a heartfelt dedication to one of Antonio's musical heroes.
“A Dream” offers a more introspective experience, allowing the listener to delve into their own imaginative world, as Antonio’s soulful music sets the stage for personal reflection and dreaming.
After watching the film "A River Runs Through It," Antonio was inspired to compose “Brothers”, which captures the intricate emotional dynamics between siblings. Through its movements, Antonio skillfully portrays the highs and lows of the relationship, culminating in a hopeful resolution.
No Antonio Mascolo album would be complete without the influence of Spanish guitar music, and "DUNE" offers just that with pieces like “Rasgheo” and “Mediterranea Dance”. “Rasgheo” is a tribute to the renowned Spanish guitarist Angel Romero. A chance encounter at a lutherie exhibition, where Antonio performed this piece, caught Romero’s attention. Romero, impressed, asked if the piece had been published and if it could be dedicated to him. With “Mediterranea Dance,” listeners are transported into the lively, colorful world of the Mediterranean, filled with charm and energy.
The title track, “DUNE”, takes the listener on a musical journey through the delicate interplay of tension and release. As with all of Antonio’s work, the interpretation of this piece is left to the listener, with one remarking that it “evokes an imaginative story about the mysteries of dunes.”
The album concludes with “In the Dark”, a brief yet dynamic composition where Antonio masterfully weaves together rhythm, melody, harmony, and form. This compact piece takes the listener from “the dark” on a swift and exhilarating path, perhaps towards the light.