Home » Jazz Articles » Album Review » Rosario Giuliani Quartet: Luggage

Rosario Giuliani Quartet: Luggage

By Jim Santella
March 1, 2002
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Alto saxophonists are usually compared to Cannonball Adderley, Charlie Parker, Jackie McLean, Phil Woods, or another widely-known artist who's been identified with that instrument. It's the luggage they carry with them everywhere. Rosario Giuliani, however, has his own voice and needn't be linked. He carries himself lightly for some themes; powerfully heavy for others. Giuliani's tone carries a bit of grit in it. He releases seamless phrases that reflect a singer's mindset. With a half dozen recordings under his belt, he's been able to find his muse. With his quartet, the saxophonist seems at ease. Giuliani has expressed his ideas through the quartet for over 6 years. This session, however, remains a bit uneven. A lackluster feeling attacks the first two tracks, as well as the final three. The quartet becomes simply uninspired in several places. There are exciting moments. Giuliani's "Dear Tucci" smokes, and Pietro Lussu's "The Awakening of the Creature" does just what its title suggests. Wes Montgomery's "Road Song" swings. Parts of Pietro Ciancaglini's "I Hope You Care" grab your interest. Elsewhere, the quartet seems weighed down and distracted.

Track Listing

Luggage; Portrait of Jennie; Dear Tucci; The Awakening of the Creature; Love for My Mother; Oriental Folk Song; Road Song; I Hope You Care; Thinking Of You; Remi.

Personnel

Rosario Giuliani

saxophone, alto

Rosario Giuliani- alto saxophone; Pietro Lussu- piano; Pietro Ciancaglini- bass; Lorenzo Tucci- drums.

Album information

Title: Luggage | Year Released: 2002 | Record Label: Dreyfus Records

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