Tirami Su cover

Tirami Su

Al Di Meola · 1987

49 min · 9 tracks · jazz

Intricate guitar work intertwines with global influences, creating a vibrant tapestry of jazz fusion that defies traditional boundaries.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Beijing Demons — This opening track sets an adventurous tone with its rapid guitar flurries and rhythmic complexity, immediately drawing listeners into Di Meola's world of fusion.
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    Rhapsody of Fire — With its sweeping melodies and intricate guitar harmonies, this track exemplifies Di Meola's signature style, merging technical skill with emotional depth.
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    Song to the Pharaoh Kings — This piece showcases an exotic flavor through its intricate rhythms and melodic structure, reflecting Di Meola's interest in world music influences.
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    Song With a View — The interplay between guitar and piano creates a mesmerizing soundscape, highlighting Di Meola's ability to evoke imagery through music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
67 /100
Alpine
Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album showcases complex compositions and technical skill, blending various influences in a cohesive yet exploratory manner.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate global musical influences, such as Middle Eastern scales and Latin rhythms, enhancing the fusion aspect.
  • The use of layered instrumentation allows for a rich sound texture, with guitars, keyboards, and percussion interweaving throughout the tracks.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. 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 pacing for focused listening
  • intricate guitar work appreciation
  • journey through diverse soundscapes
  • engaging in-depth musical exploration

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • looking for upbeat party vibes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Showcases Di Meola's technical prowess and complex compositions, marking a high point in his evolution.
Career context
Released in 1987, Tirami Su marked Al Di Meola's evolution into more exploratory territories following his previous success with Elegant Gypsy. At this point in his career, he was already an acclaimed guitarist known for his virtuosic technique and innovative approach to jazz fusion, establishing himself as a leading figure in the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
John McLaughlin· Pat Metheny· Chick Corea

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Beijing Demons 6:26
  • 2 Arabella 7:14
  • 3 Smile From a Stranger 5:43
  • 4 Rhapsody of Fire 5:05
  • 5 Song to the Pharaoh Kings 8:50
  • 6 Andonea 3:09
  • 7 Maraba 5:24
  • 8 Song With a View 6:26
  • 9 Tirami Su, Part I 1:10

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata