Product Description The sound of a violin with a steel-string acoustic guitar will forever be associated with the engine behind France's storied Hot Club Quintet: Stephane Grapelli and Django Reinhardt. Even though the present album includes "Manoir de mes Reves," a staple of said pre-World War II ensemble, in The Sound of Strings Uruguayan violinist Federico Britos and Cuban guitarist Jorge Garcia achieve a very pleasing sound of thier own. Duos are like marriages. Wonderful when they work out, less so when the partners pull in different directions without regard for the other. Jorge and Federico complement themselves nicely. If the latter possesses the dominant voice, it's the former's subtle underpinning that makes it possible. Given the nationality of the musicians, it's a given the album boasts a decidedly Latin tinge, with exceptions. In addition to "Manoir," the duo cuts loose with a swinging cover of Cole Porter's "Night and Day". Surrounded by evergreen classics, the five original compositions (three by Britos, two by Garcia) are love songs in praise of family, homeland and spouse. Those who pigeonhole thier listening will find that The Sound of Strings rejects easy labeling. Do not ask: "Is it Latin, jazz, or instrumental?" It's music to your ears. There is no higher praise. Nat Chediak Review The spirit of Stephan Grapelli and Django Rienhardt speak thru the masterful hands and profound soul of Federico and Jorge. --Actor: Andy Garcia 08/04/05“A high quality CD, original and with talented musicians. A master piece…..” Israel “Cachao” Lopez --Israel “Cachao” LopezThe arrangements and interplay are first rate. The original compositions and the sound quality of the CD are also spectacular" --Jack Wilkins 09/02/05 About the Artist Federico Britos Winner of several Grammy awards for his work with Charlie Haden, Bebo Valdes and Israel “Cachao” Lopez, Federico Britos is regarded as a titan of the violin. Born in Uruguay, he has served as principal chair, soloist, and ultimately Concertmaster with some of the finest symphony orchestras of the world. He has also performed with jazz legends like Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Nat King Cole, Dexter Gordon, Charlie Byrd and many others. Also, with some of Latin America´s greatest musicians, such as Astor Piazzolla, Joao Gilberto, Vinicius de Moraes, Zitarrosa, Bola de Nieve, Jose Antonio Mendez, Luis Miguel and Juan Luis Guerra. As a composer, Federico has written and recorded many works for orchestra, chamber ensemble, ballet and dance. He has also composed music for films, TV and theatre. Jorge Garcia Guitarist Jorge Garcia brings all the richness of Latin rhythms from his birthplace of Cuba into the folds of this ensemble. Garcia's intense passion for his instrument is immediately visible and equally audible through his soulful original compositions. Impeccable, melodic solos and supportive, rhythmic guitar work are Garcia's trademarks and are always a joy to experience. As a matter of fact, Garcia's sensitivity to his fellow musicians is uncharacteristic in the land of the 'lead guitarist'. Garcia has performed with great talent the likes of Tony Bennett, Richie Cole, Patti Page and Joel Grey to name a few. He has also performed with pop artists such as Enrique Iglesias, Trini Lopez, The Drifters, Bobby Riddell and many more. Jorge Garcia studied with Vincent Bredice and Joseph Iadone at the age of 17. Garcia has recorded with Athenas Jazz Art, Carlos Oliva, Pete Minger and his newest recording with Federico Britos “The Sound Of Strings”. See more