Strings of Desire – Andy Summers

Andy Summers (former member of the Police) and Brazilian guitarist Victor Biglione teamed for the first time to record this acoustic album. In this context, Biglione sounds a lot more acceptable than in his regular electric pop act. The repertoire is the strongest point here, with compositions by Egberto Gismonti, Jobim, Brubeck, Gillespie, and other great composers. They fortunately recognize the importance of including some delicate arrangements that surpass in expression any empty attempt of virtuosity, which nevertheless shows its face here and there. In spite of the choice of jazz standards, the solos are not jazz solos, rigorously speaking, but jazz-inspired solos. Jazz fans may have limited interest in this release, which may appeal to those who like good, non-abusive commercially instrumental pop music. Not revolutionary music, but interesting as it is. Some Brazilian rhythms, like Egberto's frevo and the samba rendition for Gillespie's "Night in Tunisia" (simplified as 4/4 time signature). ~ Alvaro Neder, All Music Guide