CD/LP/Track Review
The Code: Figli di Baia
Inspect now my first impressions, upon receiving this incredible fusion release,
". . . Superb jams, killer compositions, amazing chops, great sound and production, sweet-hearted and soulful packaging. Your band is top-notch, keys slayed me, bass kicked me so fine, drums right on and JOHN, yeehaw, you are a guitarist's guitarist. I heard lotsa Scott Henderson, flashes of Frank Gambale, rocking screams of Germany's fusion-queen, Susan Weinert, a touch of Holdsworthian speed and grace, bits of Metheny, echoes of Nguyên Lê and best of all a fresh sound all Pelosi's. The Code's Richard Evans is amazing on keys reminding me of Jac La Greca's keyboardist. Your music overall brings to mind Weather Report colliding with early Steps Ahead whilst holding forth the fire of Tribal Tech yet mirroring the finesse of Steely Dan. Pat Metheny Group might be another reference but I dig your guitar-synth MUCH better. This is one of the best fusion releases I have had the honor of hearing in 2000! Do some more soon!”
Any jazz guitar fan, fusion fan, or just great jazz fan needs to have this in their collection. I could easily wax eloquently for two to three pages, going on and on about how much listening pleasure Pelosi and The Code have given this reviewer’s ears. But I spare you all that.
As a fusion reviewer and guitar-driven jazz lover that knows what goes flying and what sits rusting on the tarmac – this is a supersonic treat. It is polished fusion, plenty of excellent musicianship and satisfying songwriting. Figli di Baia is intelligent fusion, jazz with intrigue, and a pure delight start to finish.
After hundreds of releases come across my desk, then I rip open shrink-wrap and pop in acetate boredom disc after disc, it is a real treat for a release like Figli di Baia to be like a sudden ray of warm sunshine breaking through the cloudy doldrums of so much “filler jazz” out there. Pelosi and The Code are pure light to bask in, a shining jazz for the soul, music that satisfies completely. Pelosi, you’re a treasure man! And that band of yours is a gold mine of talent. I eagerly await to see The Code live someday! Ciao. This release gets a two-thumbs up and my ears are smiling.
Track Listing: Intro, Fake Paradise, As If, A Word from Ben, Explaining Naples, Invisible Cities, Corner Pocket, Enable This, Maria
Personnel: John Pelosi
Record Label: Innercode Music Productions | Style: Fusion/Progressive Rock
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