Simone Gubbiotti (guitar), Davide Liberti (electric bass) & Ruben Bellavia (drums)
(Review by Russell/Photos courtesy of Mike Tilley)
Guitarist Simone Gubbiotti arrived at the Jazz Café to play a final date of a British tour. In fact, this Newcastle appearance was an extra gig at the end of a tour of Scotland. The Umbria-based Gubbiotti arrived with an impressive pedigree; Berklee student, gigs and recording dates with luminaries such as Peter Erskine and a current deal with Dot Time Records.
A communication breakdown, one of the perils of being on the road, resulted in Davide Liberti being without a double bass. Too late in the day to beg, steal or borrow from the local bull fiddlers, Liberti’s trusty six string Yamaha bass guitar was called into service. The trio – Gubbiotti, Liberti and drummer Ruben Bellavia – played two sets of original material with one or two standards thrown in for good measure. Gubbiotti exudes an air of calm and this is reflected in his playing. Light of touch, sketching hypnotic melodies not unlike Pat Metheny, Gubbiotti revealed an edge to his playing as and when required, such as on a swinging blues walk. Bossa, text book GAS book – Stella by Starlight – an excellent Township feel on African Latitude, Gubbiotti is a fine player. Davide Liberti’s six string bass playing demonstrated his command of the instrument. Perhaps next time the seated bassist will be seen standing with his very own double bass at the Jazz Café! Ruben Bellavia, a new name to many, has become an instant favourite. Hugely talented, dynamic (occasionally loud!), the drummer is one to watch and hopefully hear again.
Gubbiotti, Liberti and Bellavia made new friends on Tyneside. Amiable, available to all, more than willing to sign CDs, it would be good to see the Italian trio return to the Jazz Café.
Photos.
Russell.
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