Speaking of things Italian, let’s take a look at a new CD by pianist Rossano Sportiello. A specialist in stride piano, Sportiello’s elegance goes far beyond that. He is an obvious melody lover and seems altogether comfortable with the notes not played as he is with those he gives us. I would guess that his allegiance lies somewhere in the school of players like George Shearing, Teddy Wilson, John Bunch and the like. On this stirring solo effort, Sportiello performs no less than seventeen superb examples of his virtuosity. Every tune could be a highlight but just to name a few, how about “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”, “Stars Fell On Alabama”, “Fine And Dandy”, “Thou Swell”, and a bona fide treasure in “How Do You Keep The Music Playing”. Several of Sportiello’s melodic originals also add frosting to this cake. Lovers of intelligently and elegantly played solo piano, this one’s for you.
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