Joyous tango fantasy
This one’s true to its name: it’s fantasy in the framework of tango, raising strong mental images and moods. The compositions feel like they are travelling forward, which can especially be heard in the comping, rhythms and tempos. Every song has its own unique flavour built with imaginative soundscapes. Fantasiatango 2 is like a never-ending road movie, where the surrounding sceneries change quickly and everything is characterised by enthusiasm and a free atmosphere.
The album makes use of a lot of electronics and sampling, giving it an original feel while also bringing to mind the Argentinian Tango Crash, which also combines tango and electronics. Johanna Juhola creates deeply expressive themes that really grab you. The themes would’ve had substance for an even more thorough treatment. I was left missing longer compositional arcs and strong solo improvisations, which would’ve brought an added dimension. Nonetheless, Fantasiatango 2 is beautiful and enjoyable music with an infectious joie de vivre.
Translation: Jonathan Mander