Album Notes

Music from Brazil, Paraguay, Venezuela, Mexico, and Cuba blend with original works by classical guitarist and composer, Kevin McCormick.   The CD takes the listener on a delightful journey through the New World with sumptuous Latin American melodies, infectious rhythms and delicate evening songs.  
 
McCormick’s second solo guitar release showcases the lyrical style present in the  critically acclaimed Solo Guitar (2004) while venturing through folk-influenced classical compositions of Central and South America.    

Brazilian powerhouse Heitor Villa-Lobos’ “Choros—No. 1” kicks off the CD with its upbeat and syncopated rhythms.   Venezuelan Antonio Lauro’s waltzes fire up the collection with their lively dances.  A perennial favorite, “La Catedral” by Agustin Barrios is the central suite surrounded by his joyful “Danza Paraguaya” and  romantic “Julia Florida.”  The lighthearted, timeless classic “Always in My Heart” is sure to please.  Rounding out the collection is McCormick’s own arrangement of Duke Ellington’s “Single Petal of a Rose” adding a touch of jazz to the mix.  

This time around, McCormick has included some of his original compositions.  His  “Song for Rose” is a melancholy meditation  with a sweet melody and simple accompaniment.  “Lullaby,” written for his father, highlights McCormick’s sense of musicality and effortless phrasing.

A critically acclaimed performer and award-winning composer, Kevin McCormick has been playing guitar for over 30 years.  He has studied and performed in Italy and Japan and throughout the United States.  He was recognized by the Guitar Foundation of America for his solo guitar composition “Desert Passage.”   His compositions range from sacred choral works to solo and ensemble guitar pieces.