Udi Yorgo Bacanos - CD

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The oud is one of the most famous of the instruments of Arabic music, with a history that dates back to at least 1200 B.C. It was in the 20th century, however, that it became the important lead and solo instrument it now is, and Yorgo Bacanos is clearly one of the reasons why. Bacanos was to become the godfather of the oud, a master musician who created new ideas throughout his career, taking the instrument to the radio and concert hall, where he exhibited legendary skill, speed, and innovation. These recordings are the first time his music has been available since the age of the 78 rpm record; they were unavailable until a Greek collector presented producer-engineer Harold Hagopian with his lovingly preserved collection. Here we have this amazing music available again, in a carefully remastered set of 18 songs, from virtuosi solo oud pieces to larger ensembles. These songs attest to Bacanos's high technical level of playing. These are tight, sometimes stiff performances, recorded as much to demonstrate technique and speed as the songs themselves. While musician Udi Hrant may be the bluesman of the oud, with a greater sense of soul and passion, Bacanos's recordings reflect a musician of consummate skill, a historical figure who changed the instrument's place in the musical world forever. The set includes excellent notes on the artist, the history of the instrument, and a good layperson's explanation of the complexities of the music. --