When you realize the kind of talent Italian bassist
Furio Di Castri attracted for this session you know it is bound to be something special. Joining the Americans, tenor saxophonist
Joe Lovano and drummer
Paul Motian, are superb Italian pianist
Franco D'Andrea and, on a couple of cuts, trumpeter extraordinaire
Flavio Boltro, as well as drummer
Manhu Roche. There is strong blowing all around, with
D'Andrea particularly impressive with his blend of innovative harmony and deft subtlety.
Di Castri wrote all the tunes, which tend toward the sensitive side, a perspective for which
Motian, in particular, is aptly suited.
Lovano is the "big" name here, and he does not disappoint. Whatever the velocity or dynamics,
Lovano has little difficulty making himself at home.
Boltro is a wonderful plus on the short final number, but the two horn line of the trumpeter with
Lovano is a jazz lover's dream, leading one to wonder if more might be available from the session. ~ Steven Loewy