It Takes Two to Tango

Tango music is going through a quiet period, as evidenced by the number of compilations and reissues in circulation. In the absence of a new Carlos Gardel or Astor Piazzolla, labels try to win new audiences and markets with well-crafted retreads of classics and dark, sexy sleeves. It's a bit depressing but, in fairness to this particular compilation, the worst thing about it is its title. The 20 tracks, all lifted from earlier Winter & Winter discs, are played by accomplished artists, including bandoneón (squeezebox) player Osvaldo Montes, guitarist Aníbal Arias and acclaimed singer Lidia Borda. Songs range from across tango's golden age, from proto-tango performer Angel Villoldo's ‘El Porteñito’ (composed in the 1900s) to the Aníbal Troilo and Homero Manzi classic ‘Sur’ (from the late 1940s). Disappointingly, we only get to hear instrumentals of these and other masterpieces. Lidia Borda is the only vocalist, and she features on just four tracks. However, the real strength of this disc is the virtuosic piano and guitar performances, which show off tango's versatility. There's a light-hearted, dance-friendly feel to the best songs and there is plenty of verve and spirit throughout. All in all, this is a worthy compilation.