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BLADES EN VERSION TANGO

The World Cup’s final in the category “Salon Tango” (see separately) had an extra attraction: the world-release of four songs by the Panamanian singer-songwriter Ruben Blades, with arrangements for tango and milonga by Carlos Franzetti and performed with the accompaniment of maestro Leopoldo Federico’s orchestra. Thus, Blades – one of the most important Latin American musicians – played his tango versions of key songs of his fruitful repertoire: “Pablo Pueblo”, “Ligia Elena”, “Paula C” and the classic “Pedro Navaja”. This short, but intense concert, deserved a long ovation as recognition for the songs’ quality and the subtle touch of distinction brought by these new arrangements, a true discovery.

In each case, these chronicles of archetypal urban characters and their circumstances – a Blades specialty -, shone in new ways through Franzetti’s arrangements and the instrumental quality of the Orchestra. Respectful but moved, Blades thanked once again the privilege of this opportunity. In the world capital of tango, he released his tangos, an eagerly awaited project that will have, in 2011, a record release.