A
cross-generational project by the grand master of Italian Jazz.
Energized by joyous experiences on the road the ever youthful Enrico
Rava took his new working quartet of the last two years into Arte Suono
Studio in Udine. Here they were joined by trombonist Gianluca Petrella,
an internationally noted player through his contributions to Rava’s
three acclaimed post-millennium quintet albums Tribe (2011), The Words
& The Days (2005) and Easy Living (2003). With Manfred Eicher
producing, the five Italians recorded a program of Rava originals which
cover a broad range of moods – from brooding ballad playing to fiery
uptempo post-bop. Once again Rava’s playing makes it clear that
lightness and intensity, elegant cool and emotional warmth are no
opposites. Rava and Petrella form a peerless two-horn frontline, whether
playing in unison, engaging in dialogue or taking their turns in
extensive soloing. The rhythm section of Gabriele Evangelista, Enrico
Morello, (“in my opinion the number one drummer in Italy today”, says
Rava) and guitarist Francesco Diodati give them both space and assured
support. ECM
