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Antonio Ciacca: Rush Life
ByThe disc’s nine tracks are a satisfying blend of Ciacca originals and well-worn standards. The opening “Squazin,” dedicated to trumpeter and Ciacca colleague Wynton Marsalis, has a classic Horace Silver vibe. “Chipewha,” based on the jam session warhorse “Cherokee,” allows each band member the chance to show off tremendous bebop fortitude. It comes as no surprise to find Benny Golson’s classic ballad “I Remember Clifford” as part of Ciacca’s repertoirethe pianist has toured extensively throughout the world with the saxophone legend. Magnarelli carries the familiar theme with a confident stride before showcasing his powerful, hard-bop-influenced solo chops.
Other tunes of note include the modal “Flat 5 Flat 9,” the hard-swinging “Riverdale” (featuring a gutsy solo by Dillard), and the Wayne Shorter-influenced “Prince of Newark,” where Nakamura displays formidable bass chops.
The economical approach to composing and arranging on this session leaves plenty of solo space for all. By graciously sharing the spotlight with his top-notch bandmates, Ciacci succeeds at turning Rush Life into a worthy, ensemble-driven endeavor.
Track Listing
Squazin; Chipewha; I Remember Clifford; Flat 5 Flat 9; On Green Dolphin Street; Rush Life; Riverdale; Prince of Newark; Without a Song.
Personnel
Antonio Ciacca
pianoAntonio Ciacca: piano; Kengo Nakamura: bass; Rodney Green: drums; Stacy Dillard: tenor saxophone; Joe Magnarelli: trumpet.
Album information
Title: Rush Life | Year Released: 2008 | Record Label: Motema Music