David Garrett: David Garrett

David Garrett’s self-titled album may be classified as classical, but I would put the violinist in the rarely used “fiddle rock” genre. Despite the album’s name, the songs have nothing to do with Mr. Garrett. They are covers (Metallica, AC/DC) or classical pieces (Bizet, Bach). However, they bear more than the fingerprints of their performer. He plays Vivaldi’s “Summer” like a rock anthem. He plows through Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” like he owns the thing. In fact, Mr. Garrett seems bent on proving that violin music doesn’t have to be dull and plodding. He breathes life into everything he touches.

Rating: * * * * *