Al Di Meola, Twentyfour Review

by Brice Boorman

Al Di Meola’s new album, Twentyfour, is Di Meola fusing the flamenco-rooted virtuosity that’s become his hallmark with sweeping cinematic arrangements, classical motifs, and world music accents. Conceived initially during the pandemic as a stripped-back acoustic project, this ambitious 15-track double-length album blossomed into a richly textured journey through various instrumental settings showcasing Di Meola’s signature blend of acoustic precision and fiery electric skills.

The album opener, “Fandango,” propels listeners into a thrilling fusion of flamenco, jazz, and East Indian rhythms. Di Meola’s acoustic flourishes doubled guitar lines, and the sharp pulse of the cajón creates an intricate dance punctuated by orchestral sounds that add drama and depth. This exhilarating arrangement serves as a perfect entryway into the multifaceted world that Twentyfour presents. In contrast, “Capriccio Suite” dives deeper into Di Meola’s guitar explorations of nuevo flamenco, tango, and classical forms, weaving tabla syncopation into its flowing modal improvisation.

While the high-energy tracks deliver thrilling virtuosity, Twentyfour is just as captivating in its quieter moments. “For Only You” is a striking nylon guitar solo, where Di Meola’s delicate touch evokes a profound emotional intimacy. Similarly, “Precocious” sees the guitarist accompanied by tabla and cajón, creating a soundscape where Eastern and Latin rhythms intertwine with his intricate guitar lines, resulting in a meditative and rhythmic piece.

The three-part “Immeasurable” suite, the album’s centerpiece, scattered throughout the tracklist, reveals Di Meola’s expansive vision. From the intricate harmonic language of Part 1 to the melodic explorations of Part 3, the suite seamlessly bridges classical technique with jazz improvisation. The use of tabla, strings, and winds enriches the complex guitar work, making this suite a highlight for listeners attuned to the blend of global influences.

“Ava’s Dance in the Moonlight” was inspired by Di Meola’s daughter. The track is a tender, cinematic composition that uses flamenco to meet jazz and classical motifs. Di Meola’s guitar is accompanied by lush strings, piano, and subtle brass, creating a magical soundscape that feels like a soundtrack to an unspoken narrative. The way Di Meola interacts with these layers, weaving his guitar melodies through them, is a testament to his ability to create emotional resonance through instrumental music.

“Eden” features Ivan Lopez (Siuxx) adding her mesmerizing vocal element, softening the album’s sonic palette with a gentle, introspective quality. This vocal addition feels natural, blending seamlessly with the orchestral backdrop and allowing Di Meola’s guitar to take on a more conversational role, echoing and responding to the vocal lines.

Despite its expansive 80-minute runtime, the album remains well-paced. Even “Genetiki,” which flirts with a sense of repetition, serves as a counterpoint to the sprawling complexity of other tracks, grounding the listener in a rhythmic exploration that allows space for Di Meola’s electric guitar to breathe. The closing track, “Testament 24,” brings the album full circle with its acoustic guitar and orchestral interplay, a fitting end to an album that balances so many musical elements with grace.

Twentyfour reflects Di Meola’s artistic evolution as each of the songs craries the weight of his years of experience, yet there’s a freshness and vitality to the music that makes it feel like a contemporary outting. The interplay between lush orchestration and his signature guitar work keeps the listener on edge, never knowing whether the following note will come from a flamenco-inspired melody, a sweeping string line, or a tabla rhythm. And through it all, Di Meola’s technical prowess never overshadows the emotional depth at the core of each composition.

Al Di Meola once said that when he writes music, everything around him disappears. With Twentyfour, he invites listeners to disappear into his world—a world of intricate melodies, dynamic rhythms, and boundless creativity. It’s an album that reflects his virtuosity and captures the emotional depth of an artist who, even after decades of groundbreaking work, continues to explore new horizons.