Jucal
This American release, which combines the Spanish version of the album with three tracks from theYermadance soundtrack, is a perfect showcase for the wide-ranging talents of Gerardo Núñez, one of the best young flamenco guitarists to emerge sincePaco de Lucía. He is thrilling on the traditionalbuleríasandseguirillas, these a test of any real guitarist, but he can also take the music into jazz territory as he does so nimbly on "Piedras Negras." However, he could have the best technique in the world; what matters most is whether he's able to hit that magical moment ofduende, the moment of transcendence unique to flamenco when the music takes over and the spirit transforms it into something more. Fortunately, that's something Núñez achieves frequently and what makes his playing so stirring, especially on the quietly epic "A La Nana" where voice and instrument offer a long, gorgeous lullaby. All in all, a remarkable release from an astonishing talent.--Chris Nickson