The most interesting of the tango orchestras are the ones who fashioned a unique, instantly recognizable sound.

Elegant, sophisticated, urbane - using vibes, harp, percussion and other orchestral possibilities, Fresedo created his own kind of tango music and in so doing left a wonderful legacy of dreamy dance music.

Osvaldo composed, among other songs, El Once, Vida Mia, Arrabalero, Aromas, Pampero, Pimienta and a sweet little number that I love, Sollozos.

Known as "El pibe de la Paternal," Osvaldo Nicolás is from the so-called 1910 generation - one of the sedate and gentle ones.

As a player, he was in groups led by Firpo and Canaro. He started his own quartet in 1918 employing musicans such later well-known musicians as Julio De Caro (!) and Hugo Baralis. He recorded first in the U.S. with Orquesta Típica "Select,". He played on two Gardel recording in 1925 (Fea and Perdó viejita). Later in that decade, he played in movies houses under the direction of the young, unknown, Carlos Di Sarli.

From the beginning as a leader, he developed a soft, staccato rhythmic approach which became his signature.

In 1956 he made a landmark recording collarboration with wonderful Dizzy Gillespie. To me, it's not for dancing - but it sure is interesting.

At the risk of repeating myself, I think Fresedo for many could become more interesting the more one gets deeper into tango. It's the same for a dj. The more time goes by, the more I find I use him to give me a broader canvas to work on. His music is fabulous as a mood transitioner in a milonga.

There are 2 ToTANGO CD's of Osvaldo Fresedo Restorations.