Guido Basso: One More For The Road

Guido Basso, known for his mastery of the flugelhorn and trumpet, died in February of 2023. From his earliest days in Montreal playing with the Maury Kaye band, to working in the US with top performers such Vic Damone and Pearl Bailey, Basso gained a reputation as a consummate musician who was capable of working in a variety of settings. Deciding not to remain in the U.S., Basso returned to Canada and settled in Toronto. Here, he established himself as a first-call trumpeter, playing with local jazz standouts such as vibraphonist Peter Appleyard. Ultimately, he became a founding member of Rob McConnell and the Boss Brass where he burnished his reputation.

The 12 tracks on this release were culled from Basso's own "stockpile" of unreleased material, as well as selections from private sessions with his long-time pianist friend the late Jimmy Dale. Throughout the album, his playing shines with his impeccable technique and his warm and inviting tone, drawing listeners into each composition.

The opener is a Henry Mancini number, "Two For The Road," with Basso on flugelhorn and accompanied by Dale on piano with bassist Neil Swainson and drummer Terry Clarke. This sets the tone for the album with its nostalgic yet timeless feel. Basso's melodic phrasing weaves effortlessly through the number supported by the rhythm section that grooves with a relaxed feel.

The highlight of the release may be the five duo tracks with stellar musical partners: "Blue Monk" with bassist Don Thompson; "My Ideal" with guitarist Lorne Lofsky; "East Of The Sun" with pianist Robi Botos; and "Bye Bye Blues" plus "The Good Life" with pianist John Sherwood. While each partner develops a dynamic interplay and subtle improvisation to enhance the number's emotional depth, Basso's delicate approach evokes a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that allows the listener to connect with the sentiments conveyed through his playing.

The closing number is "Ballad of the Sad Young Men," composed by pianist Tommy Wolf with lyrics by Fran Landesman and performed by the same group that began the session. Basso's lyrical tone and inventive phrasing are on full display, supported by Dale's tasteful chord voicing, Swainson's steady lines, and Clarke's sensitive rhythmic choices. Overall, this album offers a captivating musical journey that is both soothing and invigorating.