CD Review - Gareth Owen

Gareth Owen - Flamenco Guitar Recorded Live (independent)

When you talk about flamenco guitar, most people these days think of Ottmar Leibert or Jesse Cook. But they are nuevo flamenco players—real flamenco guitarists, usually playing solo behind dancers, are rare outside of Spain. We are extremely fortunate to have Gareth Owen right here in Victoria playing a much purer form of flamenco. Having been taught at an early age by his father Harry (both are guitarists with Alma de España Flamenco Dance Company) and recently mentored in Spain by Jesus Avarez and Nino Jaro, Gareth is now an accomplished player. His debut album, recorded live at Alix Goolden Hall last year, is proof. Faultless performances of six complex pieces in front of a large crowd is not an easy achievement, but his playing is superb on this recording. Classic tunes, with his own special touches, are expertly realized. The recording was engineered extremely well by Russell Dawkins, and the audience virtually silent. This is for anyone who appreciates fine guitar playing, or who are fans of flamenco.

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Gareth Owen
(with Alma de España dancers)
10pm Saturday, June 20
The Superior, 106 Superior
Tickets $10 • 250-380-9515