At one time, if I'd said that an Italian, an American and two Greeks met up in a recording studio you'd have been waiting for the punchline - well here it is!
Amenta gets a great sound, it's modern and yet, at times, he sounds like Johnny Hodges might have sounded had Johnny Hodges played tenor. Not surprisingly, this is particularly noticeable on Ellington's Come Sunday.
The remaining seven tracks are originals by Armenta and convey his impressions of life in the United States.
Chestnut is one of the great unsung pianists, not unknown on either side of the pond, if you want the job done professionally then he's your man.
The Grecian bass and drums keep things moving along. Unlike Hollywood's one time screen legend, Gary Cooper, Gary Kerkezou is female but, come high noon, you wouldn't bet against her in a drum shoot-out! Beware of Greeks bearing sticks (or double basses!)
Highly recommended.
Lance
Dancing; Home; Bunch of Time; Number 9; 06/22; Travelers; Burgundy; Come Sunday.
3 comments :
The title, according to the label, is really "MIDTOWN WALK". Possibly not a good place to be at midnight!
Thanks Brian - now corrected then off to Specsavers.
L liked what you said about Cyrus Chestnut. He is another musician I almost included in my lisi of underrated jazz musicians but those passengers on the Jazz Cruises who heard him will know he is one of the greatest piano players around.
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