Review Centre: World Music

"Thank you very much for this unforgettable concert. With my moved feelings. The church of Rauzet still resounds."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Daniel Martinez was at The Queen’s Hall Edinburgh tonight performing his “20th Anniversary of Flamenco” concert to an enthusiastic audience who had filled the venue pretty much to capacity. Born and raised in Cordoba, Andalucia, this performer, composer and award winning guitarist started his professional flamenco studies at the age of 7. Daniel’s flamenco journey was to take him another 14 years of study at the Royal Conservatoire, and the opportunity to perform in some of the best tablaos (venues) in Cordoba. A move to Scotland has seen Danial Martinez make Edinburgh his new home, and tonight’s performance is part of an ongoing goal in life to not only keep true to the original ethos of Flamenco, but also to develop his own music and projects whilst bringing the living and breathing spirit of this art for to new audiences. This evening’s performance was split into two very distinct performances. The first half with Daniel Martinez performing solo on guitar and playing work from some of the great Flamenco guitarists who have influenced his own work over the years, including amongst others, Vicente Amigo, Paco de Lucía and Rafael Riqueni. Watching and listening to Daniel Martinez play guitar is in itself a lesson in his art, as his ability to perform the many challenging techniques that flamenco guitar requires to a very high standard is obvious, but this alone is never going to be enough, and something else has to happen for the spirit of this music to really work its magic, some connection that lets the performer become almost a conduit for the music, and Daniel Martinez has that elusive connection. The final performance of the first half “Baile por Rondena” (Dance for Rondena) was composed by Daniel Martinez and highlighted the interpretive performance skills of dancer Gabriela Pouso. It was perhaps here that we, the audience, got to get a little glimpse into the true spirit of flamenco as Daniel Martinez followed in the footsteps of Gabriela on guitar, along the way improvising his performance to match hers in rhythm, volume and expression with the two performers becoming almost one at times. This performance was a taster for a new project by Daniel Martinez and the Daniel Martinez Flamenco Company, “Andalucia”, and the full show will be performed at The Usher Hall accompanied by a Chamber Orchestra on Wednesday 8 Feb 2023. With this new show, Daniel Martinez is expanding upon his award winning “Art of Believing” work. The second half of the performance was very traditional in format featuring flamenco singing, plus of course more interpretive music and dance from Gabriela Pouso and Daniel Martinez. This show, for me, was a learning experience, a chance to find out more about how singers, dancers and guitarists individually express their own “flamenco spirit”, but also join together to create a performance that is rhythmically mesmerising whilst at the same time telling a story in performance arts. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Facebook May 6 2018 and April 07 2018 I LOVE the amazing live Italian music à la accordion at Café Amore. It’s my favourite thing about it!! (He was my favourite thing about it!). Cafe Amore is top notch for Italian food and one my husband’s top picks! Out for supper with the love of my life! I get to eat normal food, connect with my sweetheart and listen to amazing accordion music. Life is amazing! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"10/09/2008 If you're looking for a romantic, yet fun and friendly Italian restaurant, then Il Forno is the place to go. This place gets very busy, especially on the weekends, so be prepared to wait. I'm not really big on ordering pasta from a restaurant, but I decided to go with that here. It was very garlicky and flavorful, but honestly, I am never really blown away by any pasta, since I can make some pretty good pasta at home. Apparently, this place is famous for their wood-fired pizza, and I really wish I would have tried that. I'd definitely like to go back someday to try it. While I was here, there was a guy walking around playing the accordion. This definitely added to the romantic and authentic atmosphere. I don't know why, but I always feel awkward around accordion guys--maybe it's some inner childhood phobia. I think I would be safe now though, since I heard they now have a harp player. If you're Celiac, you can request gluten-free pasta. Also, I think this is a place you might want to get dressed up a little for--it's kind of fancy. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Exceptional We met the band Blue Sound 2 at the Ciminiere fair in Catania. We were fascinated not only by the skill of the musicians but above all by Kathrine's wonderful voice, which was nothing short of marvellous. It was what we had always wanted - an elegant wedding that would engage our guests of all ages. Immediately I contacted the manager Giulia, and what can I say about her, an extraordinary girl, right from the start she managed with her infinite sweetness to convey so much serenity and make our dream come true. With her help, we managed to choose all the members, each of whom was able to give the party the liveliness it needed. Finally, we would like to thank maestro Alì, who puts so much passion but above all so much love into his work. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Salvo and Antonella 15 September 2023"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"It was very mesmerizing performance we really enjoyed your music and so the guests thank you for making our event memorable you are fantastic nikhil "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We had the absolute pleasure of having Saxangel perform at my mum's surprise birthday party, and it was nothing short of extraordinary! From the moment he started playing, the entire atmosphere transformed into something magical. His performance was soulful, captivating, and filled with so much passion that it brought tears of joy to my mum's eyes. Every note was played with precision and emotion, creating a perfect balance of elegance and energy that kept everyone engaged throughout the event. Saxangel’s repertoire was impressive, seamlessly blending classic tunes with modern hits, catering to all age groups present. He truly set the tone for the evening and made it an unforgettable experience for all. Many of our guests commented on how incredible he was, with some even asking for his details for their future events. Professional, talented, and charismatic – Saxangel went above and beyond to make my mum's birthday a special and memorable occasion. I wholeheartedly recommend him for any celebration or event. Thank you, Saxangel, for creating such a wonderful memory for our family! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Nos ha gustado mucho en general, aunq la ocasión a sido triste ya q era funeral , era lo q buscábamos, gracias por todo "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Ich war dabei, als er auf einer After-Party in einem Keller spielte, wie er die Show begann und beendete, wow, es hat so viel Spaß gemacht. Wir wollten alle mehr, haha"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"From the first contact, you can understand the professionalism of Babis. Our guests were impressed by your presence and we thank you very much for being willing to meet our expectations on this special day for us and making them even more beautiful with your music!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The program that you both performed was outstanding! It was so nice to observe the audience discussion and participation."

Rating: 9 / 10 Share this review:

"We wanted our wedding to have a Spanish touch and this rumba group did it perfectly. His music made us feel like we were in a little corner of Spain. The mix of rhythms and songs kept us entertained all night. Thanks for making our day so special!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Sinfonietta String Quartet made our wedding truly magical. Their melodies set the perfect tone for the ceremony. We are incredibly grateful for their contribution, and we highly recommend this remarkable quartet for any special occasion!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Gary was 100% first class in every way. I booked him as a suprise for my daughter at her wedding reception in UK after we went to Jamaica 2weeks ago for her wedding. Gary helped keep it a secret by waiting outside before setting up untill my daughter wasn't about. Everyone at the wedding loved him especially my daughter and son in law and many guests wanted him to play for longer. I would recommend him 101% to anyone who is looking for a Steel Drum. Don't be put off by him being a lot more affordable than others advertised. He is absolutely BRILLIANT. Thank fella."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"I am so glad I found DJ Sparx, she was exactly what I was looking for and I didn't even know it. The dance floor was packed from first dance through to the end of her set. Whilst I was busy running around talking to my guests I knew that whenever I came back to the dance floor it would be buzzing to a great track. Even my older guests who couldn't dance commented on how much they loved seeing everyone enjoying the music so much. DJ Sparx is a true professional who only makes announcements when needed, and just gets on with a great set from start to finish. The setup and takedown, as well as sound test were all done without interrupting the wedding proceedings, which is impressive given her setup. She also managed to get hold of a song we needed with 5 minutes notice. I could recommend DJ Sparx to anyone who needs a great DJ, for a wedding, party or any event you want to make an impact. C.Winder"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: