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Di Meola enrolled at Berkless College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, and it was in 1974 that he joined a band called Return to Forever and stayed with until 1976. Di Meola would go on to explore many styles but stuck to his jazz-fusion compositions. He has also won the Best Jazz guitarist in Guitar Player Magazine’s Reader Poll.
Di Meola released his debut solo album “Land of the Midnight Sun” on October 25th 1976 through Columbia Records. The album made it to number 129 on the Billboard 200 chart and number 13 on the US Jazz chart. He wasted no time in heading back into the studio to work on his sophomore album “Elegant Gypsy” which was released in 1977, again, through Columbia Records, to peak at number 58 this time on the Billboard 200, and 5 on the US Jazz Chart. The album was later certified Gold. His third full-length album “Casino” would go on to earn similar chart success to its predecessor.
Al di Meola was always collaborating with artists, including when he collaborated with Paco de Lucia and John McLaughlin on an album called “The Guitar Trio” which went to number 1 on the Jazz Charts. His highest charting solo album was “Electric Rendezvous” which went to number 3 on the Jazz Charts.
Due to some earlier recordings, di Meola developed a reputation for being one of the fastest guitarists around, and has been hailed as a pioneer of shred guitar, influencing Yngwie Malmsteen, Richie Sambora from Bon Jovi and Dream Theater’s John Petrucci.
Al Di Meola (wrap your head around a name like that!) is a highly acclaimed American-born jazz artist. His musical star has shone bright for over three decades now, leading him to become one of the most critically acclaimed guitarists of all time. Sitting on stage, strumming his guitar with such accuracy of feeling and inexplicable ease, it’s not hard to see why. Listening to a number of hits that have spanned more years than I have been born was like being transported back in time: to the 90s, 80s and even 70s. His music was both welcomingly reminiscent of each decade yet also oddly futuristic and transcendent in its own way. Songs from his 70s album ‘Elegant gyspy’ are a perfect example of this: perhaps best described as ‘jazz fusion’, his song ‘Flight over Rio’ was both unusual and compelling. It reminded me somewhat of a high speed futuristic car chase. Probably not what the artist was going for but interesting nonetheless. Whilst I would probably be lying if I didn’t admit that Al Di Meola is one artist who appeals to certain generations more than others, I nonetheless enjoyed his set, even If I didn’t fully understand it, and watching this man’s fingers work the guitar was well worth the ticket.
sabraziz
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