Illustrious Italian trumpeter Enrico Rava, a longtime force on the European jazz scene, returns with his Fearless Five ensemble, welcoming guest saxophonist Joe Lovano, a powerhouse improviser who had collaborated with the bandleader on the live recording Roma (2019). All members of the quintet contribute compositions, trusting the bandleader’s candidly investigative approach that opposes rigid perceptions.
Rava’s “Certi Angoli Segreti”, an exceptionally beautiful tune first recorded in 1998, gracefully materializes with beautiful color shades. Francesco Diodati’s guitar gives it a particular touch, later soloing with motivic ability and acerbic distortion; Francesco Ponticelli’s dynamic bass builds a solid foundation with drummer…
Tag Archive: Joe Lovano
The “Paramount” in Joe Lovano’s new quartet can be interpreted as a statement of intent. “I feel like at this point I’m on the rise,” Joe says, seemingly unaware of the decades of experience and several dozens of leader-recordings under his belt. “We’ve arrived at this unique place with this quartet – It’s very special. It’s a new thing. And those cats, they play with a real global awareness.” The “cats” in question are guitarist Julian Lage, Asante Santi Debriano on bass and drummer Will Calhoun (otherwise known for his part in the American rock group Living Color) – all players who help shape a striking, adventurous new chapter in Joe Lovano’s expansive oeuvre on Paramount Quartet.
Reviewing the group’s show in London from days before the recording session…
