Rafael Riqueni – Versatae (Cleopatra Records, 2024)
Renowned flamenco guitar virtuoso Rafael Riqueni has released Versatae, a captivating, elegant, timeless and unexpected album reimagining beloved classic rock anthems by iconic artists such as Eric Clapton, Aerosmith, Santana, and The Police, among others.
In addition to these renditions, the album also includes exquisite interpretations of Ennio Morricone’s cinematic masterpiece, “Cinema Paradiso”; and great American classics like Henry Mancini’s “Moon River” and the lovely “What a Wonderful World” popularized by Louis Armstrong. Also featured is a superb original piece by Riqueni and a cherished Spanish language classic, “Amapola,” celebrated by artists ranging from Bing Crosby to Gaby Moreno and Natalie Cole.
Although Rafael Riqueni is one of the finest guitarists in Spain, he puts an emphasis on emotive expression rather than technical skill. You can experience that in the album’s bonus tracks, which include music by soul legend Ben E. King and a remarkable rendition of The Beatles’ classic “Yesterday.”
Notably, the album’s first single, a transcendent flamenco-infused interpretation of Led Zeppelin’s legendary “Stairway to Heaven,” provides a glimpse into Riqueni’s innovative musical approach. Riqueni’s deliberate flamencofied recreations breathe new life into the familiar melodies, allowing each note to resonate with profound depth before seamlessly transitioning to the next. Despite the absence of conventional amplification, Riqueni’s rendition culminates in a climactic finale that rivals the original’s intensity.
Versatae is available in both CD and digital formats, with the vinyl edition slated for release a few weeks later.
Buy Versatae.
Author: Iliana Cabrera
