Former pianist of the Astor Piazzolla Quintet, Pablo Ziegler continues to combine his love and talent for tango with the traditional aspects of jazz.
"Tango Meets Jazz" consists mainly of his own compositions but he has also incorporated two pieces written by his former colleague, Piazzolla, a sign of respect and gratitude.
This album seems to build on the revolutionary work he contributed towards within his early years, combining improvisation and jazz chord progressions within the recognized tango sound.
The album was recorded live at The Standard, New York, providing a raw and exhilarating performance.
The passion of the tango is portrayed through the frantic, dancing sounds of the quartet, deceiving your senses to believe you are in steamy Argentina and not in rainy Hull. The magic of recording live.
The band consists of some of America's leading musicians, including special guest vibraphonist, Stefon Harris. Improvising with maturity, precision and expertise collectively the band create electrifying solos and therefore receive gracious amounts of audience admiration.
Paul Myers provides a fantastic guitar solo with "La Cumparsola", one which incorporates the desired collaboration, tango and jazz.
The main man himself, Pablo Ziegler, holds the band together as the bandoneon and the piano seem to be working as a team, one providing rhythmical or counter melodies while the other playing sharp melodies or captivating riffs.
This differs and alternates depending on the required atmosphere, consequently providing a variety of emotions and ultimately an electrifying climax within every track.
"La Muerte del angel" is a personal favourite as it has a fantastic amount of energy for the first track while "Milonga en el viento" and the sublime "Muchacha de Boedo" seem to tell an emotional story as the band works conversationally.
A beautiful album full of fire, passion and tango at its best.

The New Tango
Astor Piazzolla: The Central Park Concert
Los Tangueros