Review Centre: Spanish / Flamenco Entertainment

"Daniel Martinez was at The Queen’s Hall Edinburgh tonight performing his “20th Anniversary of Flamenco” concert to an enthusiastic audience who had filled the venue pretty much to capacity. Born and raised in Cordoba, Andalucia, this performer, composer and award winning guitarist started his professional flamenco studies at the age of 7. Daniel’s flamenco journey was to take him another 14 years of study at the Royal Conservatoire, and the opportunity to perform in some of the best tablaos (venues) in Cordoba. A move to Scotland has seen Danial Martinez make Edinburgh his new home, and tonight’s performance is part of an ongoing goal in life to not only keep true to the original ethos of Flamenco, but also to develop his own music and projects whilst bringing the living and breathing spirit of this art for to new audiences. This evening’s performance was split into two very distinct performances. The first half with Daniel Martinez performing solo on guitar and playing work from some of the great Flamenco guitarists who have influenced his own work over the years, including amongst others, Vicente Amigo, Paco de Lucía and Rafael Riqueni. Watching and listening to Daniel Martinez play guitar is in itself a lesson in his art, as his ability to perform the many challenging techniques that flamenco guitar requires to a very high standard is obvious, but this alone is never going to be enough, and something else has to happen for the spirit of this music to really work its magic, some connection that lets the performer become almost a conduit for the music, and Daniel Martinez has that elusive connection. The final performance of the first half “Baile por Rondena” (Dance for Rondena) was composed by Daniel Martinez and highlighted the interpretive performance skills of dancer Gabriela Pouso. It was perhaps here that we, the audience, got to get a little glimpse into the true spirit of flamenco as Daniel Martinez followed in the footsteps of Gabriela on guitar, along the way improvising his performance to match hers in rhythm, volume and expression with the two performers becoming almost one at times. This performance was a taster for a new project by Daniel Martinez and the Daniel Martinez Flamenco Company, “Andalucia”, and the full show will be performed at The Usher Hall accompanied by a Chamber Orchestra on Wednesday 8 Feb 2023. With this new show, Daniel Martinez is expanding upon his award winning “Art of Believing” work. The second half of the performance was very traditional in format featuring flamenco singing, plus of course more interpretive music and dance from Gabriela Pouso and Daniel Martinez. This show, for me, was a learning experience, a chance to find out more about how singers, dancers and guitarists individually express their own “flamenco spirit”, but also join together to create a performance that is rhythmically mesmerising whilst at the same time telling a story in performance arts. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Inviting the Spanish Dance Company to our event was a game-changer. Their performance was refined, powerful, and emotionally captivating from the very first step. The dancers brought an exceptional level of artistry and presence—every movement was precise, soulful, and beautifully executed. Our international guests were absolutely mesmerized. The blend of elegance, strength, and authentic Spanish expression elevated the entire evening far beyond our expectations. This is not just entertainment; it’s world-class cultural artistry delivered with impeccable professionalism. A truly unforgettable experience"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Roger Gamon, played his guitar at the start of my birthday party back in May, beautiful sounds, for two hours. all my guests loved his work. Having Roger playing as people were arriving added a certain "je ne sais quoi" to the event. He is a lovely guy and I recommend him thoroughly."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"He sounded so good and enjoyed my food while listening to him play the saxophone."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"This is an amazing and very talented individual. A very inspiring artist who delivers comfort through his music. Very passionate with his art and has a very strong presence. His music and passion for what he does is very felt, it was a pleasure being able to have this experience and I support him on any/all of his journeys. Continue being great!!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The entertainment provide for the event was spot on, Dr Saxy was approachable and very friendly. I would not hesitate to recommend him to any friend or organization looking for entertainment. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"I had the pleasure of seeing Dr. H play at FoodAMed. I brought my teenage daughter. He is a man of many gifted talents, saxophone included. We both thoroughly enjoyed his performance. Such an amazing person! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The Street Foxes were amazing we had so many compliments about them from our guests. They were extremely professional throughout, not to mention patient on the day!! The music was perfect, a mix of old and new in their own unique bluesy style. A highly talented group!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Dr. Saxy elevated my dining experience tonight! He plays very smoothly and it’s easy listening "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Very nice saxophone music live at Mercado District. Thank you! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Amazing performance. Very lively. Loved the different styles. Hopefully will be back to hear soon. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Fabulous music! Super gifted musician, and loved the atmosphere he helped create!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"They performed at our festivities at Club Social El Mirador in Toledo and it was spectacular. After a full week of celebrations, with the audience already exhausted, Kalifornia Party Band managed to get everyone back on their feet with their energy. They took us to full throttle from the very first song. They have a different, modern and very approachable concept. They connected with the crowd from minute one, with an impeccable stage presence and a genuine desire to enjoy the moment with us. True professionals, fun, and with a repertoire that made people of all ages vibrate. We will definitely book them again. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Alan provided the perfect music throughout our ceremony and drinks reception. We’ve had so many guests comment on how amazing he was along with being both friendly and accommodating. He learnt our request to play during the signing of the register and it was just perfect! Highly recommend  booking him for any event- you won’t regret it!  Holly Milne"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Jesús your guitar music was beautiful, uplifting and relaxing at the same time!! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: