John Williams - The Magic Box (2001) [SACD]

With his crystalline articulation and extraordinary rhythmic prowess, John Williams ranks among the greatest solo voices the acoustic guitar has ever known. Now, with the joyous evocations of the African guitar tradition, Williams has hit upon his most emotionally satisfying crossover recital to date. Though both chief soloist and arranger, Williams nevertheless avoids shining the spotlight on his virtuosic skills--even his solo showcase, "Masagna," places greater emphasis on the tune's folkish incantations. He allows plenty of melodic space for the likes of steel-string player John Ethridge, while guiding listeners through the idiomatic flora and fauna of the pan-African experience: from the hornpipelike airs of Madagascar ("Mitopa") and kora-styled arpeggios of Mali ("Malinke Guitars") through to intimations of South African vocal traditions with a lovely children's chorus on the anthem of the African National Congress, "Nikosi Sikelel'I Africa." Simply expressive and deeply felt, Magic Box exudes a universal vibe that transcends borders and nationalities. --Chip Stern