Chador

This is a record with a definite history. While originally issued on CD in 1995, which was after Astor Piazzolla's death, it was recorded in Milan in 1977, and its first release came in 1978 as Chador — except in Argentina, where it was called Piazzolla '78, with different song titles, all relating to the World Cup, which the country hosted that year. Coming toward the end of Piazzolla's nonet and Italian period, it's not one of the greatest works in his canon, but still quite affecting, with a beautiful use of strings, as well as a rhythm section that's flexible enough to handle jazz and some light funk. There's a definite airy quality to the music, as on "Thriller" for example, which belies its title, and Piazzolla's bandoneon playing is exquisite throughout, although at times he's happy to let others take the spotlight. So, while hardly essential, for those completists who need everything this is a good addition.