What distinguishes this outstanding release from others of the wonderfully eclectic
Italian Instabile Orchestra is the fine recording quality and the unedited takes. With five convincing original tunes, a glorious interpretation of "Lover Man," a host of superb soloists, and the addition of special guests (trumpeter
Enrico Rava and accordionist
Antonello Salis), there is something for every lover of fine jazz. The orchestra mixes jazz with Italian folk, classical influences, and freestyle abstractions but, to its credit, never intellectualizes the music. The earthy, compelling improvisations by alto saxophonist
Mario Schiano, trombonists
Giancarlo Schiaffini and
Sebi Tramontana, French hornist
Martin Mayes, trumpeter
Pino Minafra, and others equally talented mark the orchestra as an all-star conglomeration of the highest order. The fascinating compositions seem to encapsulate a unique Italian sensibility infused by historical norms. Thrilling and invigorating, this recording should satisfy the most discriminating tastes and open the Italian Instabile Orchestra to new admirers.