Gypsy Flame
This self-produced, composed and arranged release is the sophomore effort from guitarist extraordinaire Armik. Influenced by the sounds of the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and South America, with echoes of Spain and Greece, Armik's flamenco style is dominant throughout the percussion and synthesizer backdrops. Amazingly, the guitar work for each of the album's twelve sumptuous tracks was recorded in just one take. This sort of virtuosity is apparent on several highlights, including the sizzling title track, the irresistible salsa-flavoredDancing ShadowsandMeet You in Heaven, an emotionally-charged tribute to Armik's late mother, Shooshanik.