It’s been a while since I’ve had cause to drag out that famous quote by Chopin again, but this time it’s more than warranted: “Nothing is more beautiful than a guitar – except maybe two”. If the object of the medieval art of alchemy was the transmutation of base metals into gold, these gifted young Australian guitarists do the same with sound. Andrew Blanch and Ariel Nurhadi have been playing together since 2014, but this is their debut recording. As such, it’s a showcase not only of their considerable talents, but of the depth and range of their repertoire. The program takes us “on a journey through history and around the world, through beloved works by Debussy, Rameau, Piazzolla, Albéniz, Falla and Granados”. With an itinerary including Argentina, France, Spain, Brazil and the US, such a journey is especially to be welcomed by those of us who are missing overseas travel at present. The opening Tango Suite by Piazzolla immediately establishes Blanch and Nurhadi’s credentials, the duo leaning right into the seductive rhythms of the first tango while evoking feelings of wistful recollection… Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in