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Andrea Domenici Trio: Playing Who I Am
BySuch impressive pedigree can set up serious expectations, so it's a pleasure to report that they have all been metand then some. Playing Who I Am is a deeply satisfying session at the highest level of musicianship, nicely balanced with three tributes to Thelonius Monk, three nods to the Great American Songbook, and three impressive Domenici originals dedicated to important people in his life, such as Kenny Barron ("For Kenny"). The record is full of joy and lyricism, crisply recorded, and underpinned by the pianist's superb feel, technique and originality.
Some highlights: Domenici's powerful version of "It's Easy to Remember," where the melody is stated so simply that its full beauty can emerge without any distraction. Although it's nearly ritualistic to lift the key midway to maintain interest, this pianist chooses not to, creating a tasteful rendition that is riveting without such devices. He also blows the dust off "You Don't Know What Love Is," usually rendered as a torchy ballad, by giving it a film noir vibe that is ironic and slightly tongue-in-cheek. It takes a minute to recognize the subtle references to "Santa Baby" and "Why Don't You Do Right," vamps long associated with the slyly winking vocals of Eartha Kitt and Peggy Lee.
Domenici's fascination with Monk is evident in his choice of tunes, such as the playful opener, "We See," the rarely-heard "Shuffle Boil," an unhurried, soulful "Ruby My Dear," and his own bouncy original "Bubba," which manages to salute Monk without copying him.
The pianist gets swinging and elegant support throughout from Washington and Drummond, whose expert trading on the first track heralds the presence of an exceptional trio. All told, Playing Who I Am is as straightfoward as its titlea tasteful and impressive debut, it firmly positions Andrea Domenici as a distinctive talent to watch.
Track Listing
We See; It's Easy to Remember; Daniela; Bubba; You Don't Know What Love Is; Shuffle Boil; Ruby My Dear; For Kenny: Melancholia/Goodbye.
Personnel
Andrea Domenici
pianoAndrea Domenici: piano, composition; Peter Washington: bass; Billy Drummond: drums.
Album information
Title: Playing Who I Am | Year Released: 2019 | Record Label: Abeat Records
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