Zum

The music of Argentinean tango pioneer Astor Piazzolla continues to inspire. Eight of the 13 tracks are renditions of his compositions by Zum, a UK-based quintet acclaimed for their fusion of gypsy and tango on earlier albums. Zum members David Gordon and Adam Summerhayes contribute some strong original compositions that fit nicely alongside the Piazzolla numbers, with Gordon's accordion-fuelled "Diminished Tango" a highlight. Group members come from jazz and classical backgrounds, and there's no denying their instrumental skill. Those drawn to the dramatic passion of the tango form may find Zum's approach a little academic, however. This is an album more geared towards contemplative listening than dance floor action.