***** Land of the Midnight Sun by Al di Meola- Definitely Add This Hard Jazz Rocker to Your Collection

When I got Land of the Midnight Sun, the main thing I wanted to know was whether or not it was on par with Al di Meola’s other classic albums I own, particularly, Hotel Splendido, Elegant Gypsy and Casino.  I was not in the slightest way disappointed.  Land of the Midnight Sun is as great as these three primary records that are recommended for purchase, especially if you are interested in jazz guitar.  In fact, the style is not really distinguishable from the other three, as all four of these album make one think of blazing fast Spanish jazz rock fusion.

I’ll go so far as saying that Land of the Midnight Sun is more solid straight through, but lacks a majorly outstanding track or two - think Race with the Devil on a Spanish Highway -, which is why I think this album failed to get heavy entries in the “This Is  Jazz,” series of sampling of great songs from the most important jazz musicians.

In fact, based upon the tracks from this one that are in the “This Is Jazz” collection, it would appear that they don’t represent the totality of Land of the Midnight Sun to the point of deception.  This album by itself is better than the This Is Jazz compilation entry for Al di Meola.  However, there are no weak tracks on Land of the Midnight Sun.  So, I would urge the potential buyer.  Don’t buy something from the This Is Jazz collection, but pick up one of the big 4, such as Land of the Midnight Sun.  I guarantee you that you will not be disappointed by going this way.

Perhaps, the greatest reason I give this album praise, is that I think it’s Al di Meola’s hardest rocker, but I can’t honestly say I know that yet, especially since I haven’t heard all of his albums, which are many.

Perhaps, the thing I like most about Al di Meola is that practically anyone is going to enjoy much of his work.  I’ll call Casino, Elegant Gypsy, Hotel Splendido, and Land of the Midnight Sun the big 4, especially if you want to rock out and have a martini, and use this as background music.  I, myself, am feeling like having a tequila sunrise about now and head to the beach, and scope some full bodied Spanish women out!  It hasn’t gotten to cold just yet!