Customer Reviews

The Best of Strunz & Farah

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4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I must confess to a weakness for "best of" compilations. While hardcore fans of an artist or group may debate whether the selections do in fact represent the very best material, you generally get a lot of bang for the buck. And if you're already a big fan, you probably already own or have heard most of the group's recordings, so why would you want a "best of" CD? Generally, the concept is most appealing to a new listener, or someone who knows they aren't likely to run out and buy all the albums.

In this case we get sixty-seven minutes of very pleasant flamenco/latin/world beat/etc. acoustic guitar virtuosity. The professional reviewer has accurately described Strunz and Farah's style and talent. I would go further and say this CD captures the essence of their concept: Easy listening and soothing, but with enough touches of speed and dazzle to keep it exciting. I don't see how a fan of the guitar could not like it.

Now, I only wish somebody would release the music of Caldera, Jorge Strunz's latin/funk/fusion group of the 1970s, on CD. Since this isn't likely to happen, I strongly urge you to seek out vinyl copies of that group's work, particularly the eponymous debut album. Really great stuff. I think you'll be impressed by what a hot electric guitarist Jorge was in those days.

I was eagerly awaiting the arrival of this greatest hits collection. Strunz and Farah have far proved themselves above anyone else in the world music guitar catagory. But this collection of so called greatest hits is a major disappointment to their fans and to their music. First of all, the "special" bonus track, that is supposed to justify the purchase of this supposedly thought-out greatest hits, called "Levantina" (anybody want to explain that one?) is in actuality a left-over from a previous session, most likely the "Wild Muse" sessions. Aside from that, there are many other compositions that could have been included here which are inexplicably ommitted such as "Candela", "Zumba", or "Quetzal." For some reason, this great guitar duo have avoided including song selections from their earliest works. The only exception is "Nomad." Nevertheless, this regurgitation (I sincerely hate to brand it a best of) of works is a great introduction to Strunz and Farah for the virgin listener. But, I suggest you buy a copy of either "Primal Magic" or "Americas." Not only do you get the songs included here, but also the ones that have been needlessly neglected.

How can their greatest hits collection NOT include "Americas" and "Heat of the Sun"? Purchase "Live" instead for their greatest hits.

Cultured with a touch of class. All their albums leave you relaxed and create a journey in your mind. You just want to relax in a big chair or lay with your mate, kick back and hear the strumming and the unique voice especially in "the Rainmaker"...To those of Us, not just listening to pop tunes or classic rock, you must obtain this one for social parties or events...they'll be coming up to you to ask,"Who's That Singing?"...Classy.

I realize some people argue that the selections on this disc are not that good, if you really listen to these guys, you'll realize every song they have done is the best. Whenever I want to feel relaxed, I just put any of their CD's on and go with it. If I was a doctor, I'd perscribe a heavey dose of S&F. What a cure.

Great sound. Wonderful guitar work. Sometimes it seems that they make it more complex than it needs to be, but if you like Classical Guitar this needs to be in your collection.