Introducing

Chronique

Pianist Andrea Pozza is one of many promising artists to emerge from the Italian jazz scene as yet another discovery of Paolo Piangiarelli, the one-man-shop who operates the surprising and prolific Philology label. This CD marks his recording debut as a leader, though he has previously recorded as a sideman. Joined by veteran bassist Luciano Milanese and drummer Stefano Bagnoli, the trio puts together a delightful program, mixing standards, classic jazz compositions and originals. Pozza's swinging treatment of "Yesterdays" also leaves room for a rich bass solo and a fun series of exchanges with Bagnoli, allowing the drummer to showcase his fine brushwork. His lush arrangement of "These Foolish Things" and "I'll Remember April" (the latter so often played at a blazing tempo) are subdued without descending into a cocktail style. Pozza romps through Thelonious Monk's "In Walked Bud" while offering a shimmering interpretation of Bud Powell's "I'll Keep Loving You." The waltzing treatment of Duke Ellington's "I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart" is followed by a gorgeous, richly voiced solo of Billy Strayhorn's "Lush Life." Pozza also composed a pair of originals, including the driving opener "Fleeting Visions" and the jaunty yet easygoing hard bop vehicle "Blue Jump." Luciano Milanese penned the lovely ballad "Twilight," played as a piano solo by the leader. This is a very impressive debut.
© Ken Dryden /TiVo