REARWARD Da Roma a New...(Lp "10+CD) [VINYL]

This record represents the first opportunity for an Italian jazz composer and arranger to express himself with complete freedom. Up to now it seems to me that Italian jazz has been focused almost entirely on the figure of the soloist, with the obvious result that when they adopt American themes and arrangements the Italian version pales in comparison with the original. On the other hand, when the execution is left entirely to the imagination of the musician, its inevitable that for the duration of the record we are entirely at the mercy of the variable quality of the soloists inspiration. So, what better setting for a jazz musician than a new arrangement of the original, supporting him in the solos and alternating the ensemble writing with individual improvisation It helps him coordinate his ideas, develop them and catch his breath! Jazz today is going through a particularly happy period, both commercially and stylistically. It seems to be back to the golden age of swing! With the end of the long period of renewal, controversy and research ranging from the first bop to the Cool of Tristano and the experiments of Kenton musicians today are living in a period of intense creative activity. They are working in a language that, while it doesnt ignore the teachings of modern symphonic music, puts more emphasis on the eternal fundamentals of jazz rhythm, swing and modality. Even in these arrangements I tried to express myself in a way which was contemporary but classic, without experimental pretensions, focusing on a good sound and effective rhythm. The pieces, all written by me and arranged especially for this recording, were performed on March 25th and 27th, 1957.