In the Key of Tango (Bonus Tracks Version)

Tango music’s signature instrument may be the accordion-like bandoneon, yet the genre can sound great in settings as varied as orchestras, current-day electronic music groups, and any number of small acoustic ensembles. Argentine-born pianist/arranger Carlos Franzetti typically works with orchestras or ensembles, but here he scales back to extemporaneous solo piano for a set of improvisations based on his favorite tango compositions. Franzetti says that the original 2013 session was cut short due to cold weather when he was recording in Buenos Aires (with a second one done later that year in New Jersey), but here he sounds plenty warm. Adept at jazz and classical as well as tango, Franzetti shows attention to detail and dramatic filigree in his playing; that's readily apparent on the classical-leaning “A Don Augustin Bardi” and “Boedo.” Things swing more in a jazz vein on “Soledad” and “Nada.” Of course “Tango Fatal,” “Dazarin,” and particularly “Adios Nonino” epitomize the passion of tango. Elegant, passionate, and multifaceted, there’s much to hear and consider with this fine effort.