Piero Odorici: Cedar Walton Presents (2012)

GLENN ASTARITA,

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

Longtime contributor to AAJ and Downbeat, Jazz Review, EjazzNews, Radio DirectX.

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Published: April 27, 2012

Track review of "Native Son"

Recording for the prominent modern jazz Savant record label with eminent pianist Cedar Walton and his trio should indicate a milestone in the career of Italian tenor saxophonist Piero Odorici. After performing with trumpeter Eddie Henderson and Latin jazz percussionist Ray Mantilla, and maintaining a balanced global recording and touring regimen, Odorici may garner some additional and well-deserved recognition in the US via this strong outing.

The saxophonist's arsenal includes a touch of Coltrane-like sonic spiritualism and a hearty tone embedded with a commanding presence. On "Native Son," the quartet touches upon a Caribbean groove, tempered by Walton's rhythmic block chords, as Odorici's sings the melody through his horn, incorporating a buoyant outlook with subtly soaring lines. Moreover, Walton augments the catchy medium tempo melody with simple harmonic voicings and dances around the primary theme. But it's Odorici's sense of ownership, marked by yearning notes and blustery phrasings, that helps drive this piece into a radiantly upbeat gala, complementing a diverse track mix enamored by the band's unquestionable synergy.

Track Listing: Track #1; Track #2; Track #3.

Personnel: Piero Odorici: tenor saxophone; Cedar Walton: piano; David Williams: bass; Willie Jones III: drums.

Record Label: Savant Records