Out and About…by Kent Leithold
Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra. A compelling sensual evening of stylized flaminco guitar playing that touched on jazz, classical and sometimes a hint of pop for an eager crowd at San Diego’s Music Box theater in Little Italy. Ottmar is one of the most successful instrumental performers in the world. A true innovator in the Nouveau Flaminco style, which weaves traditional flaminco technique in a very modern feel.
He was born in Germany to a Chinese-German father and a Hungarian mother, now resides in Santa Fe, New Mexico when not touring extensively.
I have followed his career for thirty years and always find his music & performances to be a rich, soul searching time to reflect and meditate.
He has released 25 albums, five Grammy nominations and 38 Gold and Platinum certifications in the U.S. alone. Calling him an international guitar master of worldwide acclaim is an understatement.
Ottmar and his band of two (Luna Negra), treated the packed house at the Music Box theater to a show of crowd favorites – from his hit “Snakecharmer” to “Barcelona Nights.”
What a treat the Music Box is. The acoustics are pristine in the ultra modern suburban venue.
During the 90 minute set, he put slightly different twists on the familiar melodies, keeping them very fresh and making your ears perk up and anticipate every note. He is not one to talk during performances, but did tell the crowd several interesting stories between songs.
If you are in the mood to be taken away, relax and enjoy some passionate melodies – or looking to hear something new and different, and are not familiar with Ottmar Luna’s music – spoil yourself. Take a moment to listen, whether it be on iTunes, Spotify or your favorite smooth jazz radio station. This is world acoustic music at it’s very best.
