The Guitar Player's Resource
The new CD, devotion, offers ten instrumental songs melding classical, flamenco, Latin and smooth jazz sounds. Recorded by the guitar duo of Ivan Najera and Tony Unger, the music is dynamic and passionate, and unlike many of the acoustic duo CDs out there, several tracks feature electric guitar -- searing fusion moments that punctuate the primarily Latin rhythmic work. Each piece on devotion features a strong melody with ample improvisational moments. The two guitarists are clearly devoted to their music, which comes across in their harmonious interchange and their infectious style. A great album for lovers of flamenco and Latin guitar playing. Najera & Unger were originally profiled in the April-May, 1999 edition of The Undiscovered.
Ivan Najera is a native of Quito, Ecuador. At the age of 9, he began playing guitar. Ivan has played with the Colombian jazz/salsa group Los Caminantes" and released a CD in 1992 entitled "Jungle". Tony Unger also began playing the guitar at age 9. He was born in Germany, raised in Switzerland, and came to the United States at age 18. Tony began studying classical guitar, but fell in love with Spanish music, especially flamenco. He has played in rock and blues bands, but recently rediscovered his roots, playing classical, Spanish and jazz again. The duo came together, and the music on devotion was born -- their guitars playing off each other in an exchange of form and fervor.
Najera and Unger often have performed concerts and have been broadcast of radio and television. In 1999 they have scheduled a tour of Ecuador and have planned for the release of two new recordings.
Ivan Najera & Tony Unger
10941 Blackledge Road
Penn Valley, CA 95946
United States