Record Reviews

GIANCARLO ROMANI ~ NAIF ALFA MUSIC 230 (Barcode: 8032050020112) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2020 Released: 2020 This is the debut album by Italian trumpeter / composer Giancarlo RomaniFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with pianist Gianluca MassettiFind albums by this artist, bassists Giuseppe SalvaggioFind albums by this artist (electric) and Jacopo FerrazzaFind albums by this artist (acoustic) and drummer Giampaolo ScatozzaFind albums by this artist. Several guests appear on selected tracks. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Romani. A bonus tracks offers one of the compositions in an alternate version. The music is absolutely beautiful, threading a line between modern Jazz and sophisticated Fusion, but first and foremost it is deeply melodic and lyrical, which of course is hardly surprising when talking about Italian Jazz. There is something in the Italian soul that enables the composers to weave such heartbreakingly melodic and harmonically perfect tunes, that capture the listener completely helpless. But beyond the strictly melodic contents the album offers wonderful instrumental work as well. Romani has a sweet mellow tone, which is ideal for this kind of music, and his performances are like hot chocolate on top of a cake. Massetti is a superb keyboardist and his soloing and accompaniment keep the music together harmonically and set the dynamics. His Fender Rhodes parts are a beautiful reminder of the times when this instrument changed the face of Jazz taking the music on its electric path. Both bassists, each in his domain, supply the perfect foundation and Scatozza, one of Italian best drummers today, is elegantly setting the pace, always highly respective. The leader skillfully inserted the guests exactly in the right places, optimizing the overall sound of the album, without overdoing things. The guest saxophonists skillfully build a more dominant brass sound, which enhances the music significantly and the other instruments create tasteful ornamentation. Overall this is a superbly mature debut album, on which Romani demonstrates his skills as a composer, arranger and trumpet player and which is a true joy to listen to. Well done and highly recommended!

Updated: 15/04/2021Posted: 15/04/2021

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