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Gianni Bardaro / Pierluigi Villani: Unfolding Routes
ByBardaro, Italian-born but now residing in Copenhagen, is a highly gifted alto saxophonist. He possesses both a beautifully haunting, poetic voice ("Unfolding Hearts") as well as fine technical chops, leveraging both heavily throughout. Choosing to incorporate freer forms of musical expression, his resonant sound intrigues rather than repels. His improvisational style speaks of statement and logical embellishment. Ideas are examined and expanded with superb rhythmic and melodic flair.
The material ranges from "statement" fare such as the opening and closing sax/percussion duets ("Glimmer," "Gateway"), to the elegant ("Shifting Route") and the hip ("Boppel"). There are even some quasi-rock platforms ("Free Falling Verve," "Signs of Light," "Four Ways to the Exit"). All ten selections are interesting originals by way of either Bardaro or co-composed with drummer Pierluigi Villani.
Bardaro, with one exception, shies away from unnecessary saxophone embellishments such as double tones, squeals and squawks; he's simply too good a creator on his own to have to do so. His duo with Villani ("Gateway") ends the session on a rhythmic fifteenth round with the drummer's frantic kit workand shrewdly, like that infinite horizon, without melodic resolution.
Co-leader Villani extracts the musical most out of his drums and cymbals. He's a highly energetic, involved player, beautifully supporting and negotiating with Bardaro. Bassist Andreas Hatholt has a gorgeous sound and drive, while percussionist Yohan Ramon shines when involved.
Rest assured, Unfolding Routes is an acquired aural taste. However, it's a robust ride of intelligence, beauty and energy. Hitchhiking is recommended.
Track Listing
Glimmer; Free Falling Verve; Nothing Unforeseen Happens; Unfolding Hearts; Boppel; A Child Across the Rainbow; Signs of Light; Four Ways Before the Exit; Shifting Route; Gateway.
Personnel
Gianni Bardaro
saxophoneGianni Bardaro: alto saxophone; Pierluigi Villani: drums; Andreas Hatholt: double bass; Yohan Ramon: Cuban box drum and bongos (2, 8).
Album information
Title: Unfolding Routes | Year Released: 2013 | Record Label: EmArcy
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About Gianni Bardaro
Instrument: Saxophone
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