Dino Saluzzi & Anja Lechner - Ojos Negros

The long-awaited album by the Argentinean bandoneon giant Dino Saluzzi and German cellist Anja Lechner, known both for her work with the Rosamunde Quartet and her explorations outside it. It was Lechner's interest in Tango Nuevo that made the ongoing Saluzzi/Rosamunde Kultrum collaboration possible in the mid-90s; Anja and Dino have toured widely as a duo, too: Jazz Review/Penguin Guide editor Richard Cook described one of their concerts as being as close to perfection as any music-making I can recently recall.

Essentially chamber music with inspirational roots in Argentinean traditions 'Ojos Negros' puts the emphasis on Saluzzi's heartfelt, finely-crafted compositions but has a strong improvised component. Saluzzi himself takes all the freedom he needs whenever he needs it - the bandoneon is virtually an extension of his character; it mirrors his changing moods.

Personnel: Dino Saluzzi (bandoneon), Anja Lechner (cello)