If you have not yet encountered pianist Rossano Sportiello, I'd advise you to do a little skating around the internet and check him out. I think you'll love what you hear. The first thing that struck me about this album is how different it is from Sportiello's past efforts. On those sessions he displayed a stronger image as a stride/swing pianist. And I might add, to very impressive effect. But on this trio date he dons the hat of a traditional modern jazz pianist and once again, with great success. His trio colleagues are Nicki Parrott, bass; and Eddie Metz, drums. Parrott also sings on "What A Difference A Day Made", "Hallelujah, I Love Him So", "What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life" and "Close To You". The instrumental cuts are the real stars of the show as Sportiello explores the works of such diverse composers as Duke Ellington, Bud Powell, Leslie Bricusse, Frank Foster and Teddy Wilson. Speaking of Wilson, Sportiello displays the economy and the elegant touch that were the hallmarks of Wilson's style. I look forward to future albums by the versatile and impressive Rossano Sportiello.
Arbors; 2016; appx. 73 min.
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