Customer Reviews

Bajo Cero

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When Pablo Ziegler began recording solo albums after a long stint as Astor Piazzolla's pianist, most of the songs he recorded naturally paid homage to the deceased master. Then, as time passed, Ziegler seemed to feel more comfortable as an artist in his own right, and began to add some of his own compositions to albums that still leaned heavily on the legacy of Piazzolla. With Bajo Cero, Ziegler takes his boldest step out of Piazzolla's shadow and confidently expresses his own muse even when interpreting a Piazzolla composition.
I bought Bajo Cero several years ago when it was first issued and liked it instantly but it soon became overwhelmed in the jumble of other music I was then listening to. Recently, I brought it with me on a long trip and allowed it to play over and over, thus allowing me to develop an appreciation for what a fine recording this is.
Here's what I like best: Rayuela, Flor de Lino, and the title cut are the finest expressions of Ziegler's own muse. Fuga Y Misterio is my favorite Piazzolla composition interpreted here and I really enjoy Ziegler's take on the classic Los Mareados and the more modernistic Yuyo Verde.
When I bought Bajo Cero, I was hoping that it would showcase a mature Pablo Ziegler, and Ziegler did not disappoint! He is ably backed by Quique Sinesi on guitar and Walter Castro on bandoneon, both of whom I'd like to hear more. They put the flesh on Ziegler's arrangements without overpowering his virtuoso piano.
Here's a CD that's as listenable at the office as it is at home. If you are a Ziegler fan, a Piazzolla fan, or merely piano enthusiast with a soft spot for jazzy tango, then I highly recommend that you add Bajo Cero to your collection. You won't be disappointed.

Pablo Ziegler, a protege of one of Argentina's greatest composers, Astor Piazzolla, produced with Quique Sinesi guitar and Walter Castro bandoneon a beautiful CD. It features Ziegler's own compositions as well as music by Piazzolla and others. The tunes and playing often soulful are spirited and passionate in the true style and sensitivity that musicians from that country usually produce. And unlike many of the Piazzolla recordings, the bandoneon when played by the composer, is not allowed to dominate the sound, producing a much more intimate effect resembling a chamber music trio. Buy this CD if you enjoy the best that Argentina can produce.

Dave Sagman

Very good commentaries expressed by Mr.Sagman

Just came back form Buenos Aires, its a city vibrant with contemporary jazz, first class musicians and a good display of argentinian jazz I brought along.

I almost missed Bajo Cero for I looked in the jazz section and it was classified as Tango.. if you are familar with Piazzolla then this should come as a refreshingly pure addition.. if you are not, then this is refreshingly good introduction.. not to miss

For me, a beautiful blend of the artists' talent and music. The jazz is a complement to the momentum and energy of the classic tango.

An excellent recording. We've played it many times over the past few days, and it always enriches our day.

Baja Cero continues the legacy of Astor Piazzolla in a more jazz vein. Even though it is very firmly a jazz cd, the spirit and sound of the Tango Nuevo permeates it. The group is very tight and there is some wonderful ensemble work. Highly recommended for anyone, especially if you are a fan of the work of Piazzolla.

If you like your music dark and spooky, go for this Pablo Ziegler opus. With a bandoneon player who can't seem to play in a major scale and innovative variations on a theme of tango, this is no beginner album. The jazzy but spare piano combined with smart guitar and that mysterious squeeze box combine to produce an intriguing choice in the lineage of Astor Piazzolla.