It was back in 2011 when Starace first made an impact on the BSH radar when he played a quartet gig at The Chilli. This JNE gig had been fraught with problems. Venues cancelling at the last minute, dates having to be changed, you name it, it happened.
However, after Dave Weisser and the Take it to the Bridge crew agreed to step down and make the room available to JNE it was all systems go with the end result being one of those I was there moments.
Since that memorable night, CDs by Starace were, and still are, eagerly anticipated and they have never failed to delight.
The Power of Three is no exception. An album that maintains the high standard we have come to expect from the London-based Italian saxman, it explores many avenues. As well as compositions by Sam Jones, Bobby Timmons, Chick Corea, Michel Petrucciani and Charlie Parker there's also numbers by Stevie Wonder, Ennio Morricone and Pino Daniele plus a rather beautiful ballad by Starace dedicated to his 5 year old niece - Nina.
The absence of a drummer in no way detracts from the performance. Cottle provides the pulse as well as some bass lines that perfectly complement Starace's angular agility on alto (and soprano). The third member of the trio, Jim Watson is equally supportive as well as slotting in his own meaningful moments. This is a team of equals. Three great individuals coming together as one.
Playing in one room "without the dreaded headphones", Starace said, enabled them to try and create a live atmosphere.
I think they succeeded! 61 minutes and 5 seconds of pure magic.
Lance
Lighting up the Candles; Del Sasser; This Here; Got a Match; Nina; Once Upon a Time in America; Brazillian Like; Segment; Napule è.
1 comment :
Thanks Lance, hope our paths cross again with some great live music!
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