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Our Review

Aldo is the man. I reviewed his superb Merriment two years ago and gave that CD my highest recommendation. Unwrapped is Aldo's earlier holiday release, and it is an excellent sibling of the later offering. Both CDs reflect the same virtuosity; this is power piano jazz of the most excellent sort.

As it turns out, Unwrapped is also Aldo's first solo piano CD; if only all first efforts could be this good. Aldo's interpretations are like George Winston on steroids; the pieces pulse with excitement and intensity, especially the brilliantly conceived and executed Here Comes Santa Claus Into Town. OK, Aldo does tone things down for gentle pieces like Silent Night and Away in a Manger, but these, too, are creative and fresh. The biggest departure on Unwrapped is the inclusion of Vivaldi's more serious Winter Suite (from The Four Seasons) at the end, an unusual and dynamic performance for the solo piano.

Honestly, this is great holiday music, and I do not know why Aldo is not a household name. His Unwrapped and Merriment are two of my favorite seasonal offerings, and I have more Christmas CDs than Imelda Marcos has shoes! Great stuff!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2007)

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From the liner notes:

Arranged, Performed, and Produced by Aldo

From the artist's Website:

Music has always been a focus in Aldo's life. Many of his treasured memories are reflected in the soulful passions of his music. Remembering dear friends and fun experiences has given Aldo the material to create many musical treasures. Aldo's greatest wish is that he has charted a journey of discovery that will help you find and hold onto your cherished memories.

Growing up on a farm outside of Moorhead, Minnesota, Aldo sat next to his mother, feet dangling off the piano bench, while listening to her unlock the secrets within the black and white keys. This was the beginning of his tender devotion to the piano. At fifteen, Aldo took his talent to the church and accompanied the choir for over six years, naturally leading him to a degree in music.

Since, Aldo has scored countless television shows and documentaries. He is most proud of his Emmy award winning documentary "Delafield." Other notable projects include the nationally syndicated PBS series "Painting with Paulson" and the theme to the popular Prairie Public Television kids' series, "Kid's Zone." His work is not exclusive to the small silver screen, however. Aldo's music has been heard countless times on "As the World Turns", the "Today Show", and the
"Rosie O'Donnell Show."

Aldo

Unwrapped

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Track List