Casino cover

Casino

Al Di Meola · 1978

38 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant tapestry of jazz fusion where intricate guitar work intertwines with diverse global rhythms and rich melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Egyptian Danza — This track showcases Di Meola's ability to fuse Middle Eastern melodies with complex jazz rhythms, setting a tone for the album's eclectic influences.
  • →
    Chasin’ the Voodoo — Characterized by its energetic tempo and rhythmic intricacy, this piece highlights Di Meola's technical prowess and passion for Latin jazz elements.
  • →
    Casino — The title track is a masterclass in composition, featuring shifts in dynamics and a captivating interplay between acoustic and electric guitars.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
70 /100
Alpine
Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate compositions and diverse rhythms highlight Di Meola's fusion style, making it a standout in jazz.

What we noticed

  • Each track showcases intricate guitar solos that often intertwine with percussive elements from various global influences.
  • The final track, 'Casino', serves as a culmination of themes presented earlier, blending melodies from previous pieces into a cohesive finale.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady melodic explorations throughout
  • intricate guitar work appreciation
  • vibrant rhythmic complexity enjoyment
  • engaging in-order listening experience

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification tracks
  • prefer standalone singles over albums

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Solidified Di Meola's reputation in jazz fusion with critical acclaim.
Career context
Released in 1978, Casino was Al Di Meola's second solo album, following his acclaimed debut, Land of the Midnight Sun. At this point in his career, he was already recognized for his virtuosic guitar technique and was a prominent figure in the jazz fusion movement, having previously collaborated with Chick Corea in Return to Forever.
Stylistic neighbors
John McLaughlin· Pat Metheny· Chick Corea
New to Al Di Meola? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Egyptian Danza 5:57
  • 2 Chasin’ the Voodoo 5:05
  • 3 Dark Eye Tango 5:25
  • 4 Señor Mouse 7:22
  • 5 Fantasia Suite for Two Guitars: a. Viva la danzarina / b. Guitars of the Exotic Isle / c. Rhapsody Italia / d. Bravoto Fantasia 5:12
  • 6 Casino 9:29

What to play next

Splendido Hotel
Listen next

Splendido Hotel

1980

Continues the vibrant jazz fusion with rich melodies and intricate guitar work.
Elegant Gypsy
Go back to

Elegant Gypsy

1977

Sets the stage with similar energy and style, enhancing the listening experience.
Full Al Di Meola discography Where to start with Al Di Meola Artists like Al Di Meola
jazz fusion

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata