German born Dirk K started his career in L.A. in
1987. He performed with musical legends like Randy Brecker, Toots
Thielemans, Will Kennedy, Gary Meek, Mitch Forman, and many more. He
participated on more than 30 CD’s as a guitarist, composer and
producer. He is one of the most productive musician. Only in 2007 he
released 4 (!) projects: Flamenco Jazz (Quartet Equinox), Shelly BMW
presents Dirk K, Shelly BMW presents Dirk K - Season Greetings
and
Dirk K Plays Jobim. To say it in short words: Dirk is a master of the
Flamenco guitar.
His personal favorite is the music of the Brazilian
musician Antonio Carlos Jobim. Dirk comments: “At an early age, my
parents introduced me to the music of Antônio Carlos Jobim. His music
featured a singer, Astrud Gilbero, the style of music was Bossa Nova.
I fell in love immediately. All those great compositions were hidden
somewhere in my mind for years.
It wasn’t until I started performing with the Brazilian singer and
guitarist Kleber Jorge, that all those memories came back and as a
result, I decided to record 10 of my favorite Jobim classics. I know,
I am not the first one to do so, but I hope to give these compositions
a new and fresh appeal with my signature Dirk K guitar sound. I
dedicate this CD to my fans.”
Wikipedia considers Jobim's Chega De Saudade (No More Blues) as
the first Bossa nova song. The song became popular with João
Gilberto's interpretation launching the Bossa nova movement. Dirk's
interpretation is a brilliant performance of the lead melody filled
with guitar layers switching on and off.
Still giving Jobim's music the
necessary respect Dirk delivers a modern version of Triste with
an urban beat. It's the guitar which sounds and counts. Agua De
Beber is another popular song of Jobim. Originally brought to the
American market with Jobim's album The Composer of Desafinado Plays
(1963) this song began a triumphal procession through many albums.
Dirk delivers a successful amalgam of electric and acoustic guitars.
Desafinado (Slightly Out of Tune)
is one of the greatest hits penned by
Jobim. Covered by such a like Herb Alpert, Ella Fitzgerald or George
Michael it's one of those songs we can count to the world songbook.
Dirk's version radiates the spirit of the original. O' Amor Em Paz
(Once I Loved) is another Jobim classic. A slow ballade often
interpreted and performed by Dirk with great sensitivity.
The song Dindi found the way to many
popular coroners like Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, Johnny Mathis or Paul
Anka and great vocalists like Jane Monheit, Jeane Carne and Ella
Fitzgerald. From the smooth jazz scene I remember versions of Norman
Connors and Dave Bradshaw. Dirk spell bounds a special atmosphere with
a sitar sounding background.
Listen to melodies like Insensatez (How Insensitive) is like
meeting old friends. Jobim has a great influence on the contemporary
music of the last century. Dirk captures the spirit of the song
perfectly.
Corcovado (Quiet Nights) and
most the tunes on this album were originally released on Stan Getz'
album Getz/Gilberto (1963) introducing Jobim to the American public.
On Meditação (Meditation) Dirk
shows with a gentle ease his mastership on guitar. Listen especially
to the last part of the song. Wave is certainly besides Girl
From Ipanema Jobim's most popular song. Dirk plays the song a
little bit slower than the original given him the opportunity to carve
the details in a brilliant manner.
Dirk K Plays Antonio Carlos Jobim is an
excellent festival of acoustic guitar and the best portal to become
acquainted with Jobim's work.
