Touch

3CD, 60-track set exploring the UK’s psychedelic scene in the late 1980s. A sequel to the critically acclaimed ‘Another Splash Of Colour’.

Tango accordion has a clear icon in the late Astor Piazzolla, but these days Richard Galliano is making a strong case for being the premier jazz accordionist. He's as lyrical as one needs, swings like mad, or brings tempos down to a sensual jog with passion and soul. When called upon, he can play a gut-wrenching tango or two himself. For this effort he's joined by two different crack rhythm sections, the brilliant Jean-François Jenny-Clark and Daniel Humair (seven tracks), or the slightly cut below Remi Vignolo and Andre Ceccarelli (four tracks), bass and drums respectively. It's not hard to hear a distinctly French but improvisationally Americanized sound. The lone standard, "You Must Believe in Spring", is one of many waltzes, but this one jumps from second to fifth gear, Galliano rapidly flying through the changes. The title track is also quick, with "Augusta" more a sprightly 3/4, while "L'Envers du Décor" is an easier modal three beat. Nods to Brazilian Hermeto Pascoal are heard on his composition "Bébé" and the mallets on drums and heavy conga beat-based fanfare and theme of "Passarinho".

Touch of Class was an American soul and R&B musical group from Philadelphia featuring four members: the brothers Gerald Jackson and Pete Jackson, as well as Herbert Brevard and Michael Hailstock. The band was active from the mid-1970s until mid-1980s recording for Midland International Records and affiliated RCA label and had a hit with their debut "I'm in Heaven" reaching #65 on Billboard Hot 100. It was also the title of their debut studio album. By 1979, Michael Hailstock had left to concentrate on songwriting and the band turned into a trio. Their second album, the self-titled Touch of Class included their version of "Turn the Beat Around", a song written by Gerald and Pete Jackson and recorded by Vicki Sue Robinson in 1976 that gained big recognition and a big hit for her. the song is considered a dance/disco classic. It was also re-recorded by Laura Branigan in 1990 and by Gloria Estefan in 1994.

Antonio Forcione is referred to as the Jimi Hendrix of acoustic guitar and his live energy has established him as one of the most cherished figures across the world. Touch Wood is a continuation of previous works, building an eclectic mix of Italian folk music with Brazilian, Spanish and Cuban sounds. Forcione enriches the experience by enlisting friends and musicians from across the globe. The album includes the outstanding title track, “Touch Wood,” an emotionally charged guitar workout, executed with Forcione’s effortless technique.