Umberto Petrin (Splasc: Voir Loin

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

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

Recent articles (1,629 total)

Published: January 1, 2002

Pianist, Umberto Petrin is known for his work with the widely acclaimed “Italian Instabile Orchestra,” while generally residing as one of Italy’s premier modern jazz pianists. Petrin once again attains a comfort zone performing alongside his longtime musical companions, bassist, Giovanni Maier, and drummer, Roberto Dani. Saxophonist, Assif Tsahar joins the group on two tracks, while poet, Milo De Angelis adds a narrative to one piece.

The group establishes a pattern from the onset of the opener titled, “Clair De Lune.” Here, we find Petrin investigating a potpourri of divergent themes in concert with the rhythm sections’ accelerating and/or reverberating patterns. The band frequently alters the pitch via an abundance of acute angles and loping rhythmic exercises. On “Nervosa Evidenza, Pietre, Iridi, Carver,” Petrin devises a relatively complex set of frameworks via contrasting choruses while the thoroughly musical Dani modifies the undercurrent with well-placed rims shots and subtle tonalities. Meanwhile, Maier is a monster bassist and as expected, demonstrates near flawless command of his instrument!

Tenor saxophonist, Assif Tsahar engages in a good old blowing session during the free jazz style opus “As The Doors Swing Open, Crack Or Slam,” whereby Petrin responds in true call and response type fashion. Overall, this is a solid effort; however at times, the production suffers from a lack of continuity, as many of the often-elusive motifs give the appearance of being stitched together. Otherwise, Petrin and co. effectively let their imaginations run rampant throughout these altogether absorbing works!

Splasc(H) Records

Track Listing: 1.Clair De Lune 2.Reflex And Refractions 3.Nervosa Evidenza, Pietre, Iridi, Carver 4.Evidence 5.Rothko

Personnel: Umberto Petrin: piano

Style: Modern Jazz