Jazz giant Al Di Meola has released a number of interesting projects in recent years that should prove to listeners that he isn’t just a guy with fast fingers who made Return to Forever more than a showcase for Chick Corea’s electronics. On both acoustic and electric guitars, Di Meola has flavored his live and studio recordings with classical, flamenco, and world music seasonings.
Across the Universe is Di Meola’s second album of all Beatles tunes. If you are looking for the standard play the melody and get out of the way tribute, then you will be disappointed. Each track contains the expressive guitarist’s unique stamp. Beatles fans will recognize the tunes, but it may take a few listens to get comfortable. I believe Di Meola’s playing here demonstrates both the longevity of Beatles melodies and the improvisational chops of a performer who shows no signs of slowing down at 65.
Stand out cuts are “Norwegian Wood” and “Strawberry Fields Forever,” but every tune has something remarkable to discover on repeated listenings.