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Gian Tornatore: Sink or Swim
ByOn the academic end Tornatore is a graduate from Berklee, and has studied with saxophonists Joe Lovano, and George Garzone. The fact that his first major gig at the age of 16 was with the '70s and '80s female rock group Heart is an interesting tidbit but it's his own voice as a jazz musician that takes center stage on his self produced recording.
On the technique side, Tornatore's voice may not sound as polished as some, but it more than fills in the gap with a soulful and free presence as he equally demonstrates his skill on both tenor and soprano. It always nice to hear original material and six out of the eight compositions show off the saxophonist's writing and arranging qualities with music that is poised, reflective, and of the present.
His band for the occasion includes a tight set of musicians who perform the music with energy and honesty. Individual highlights thrive, such as the quartet swings with fire on "Three's a Crowd," as Zach Wallmark gives a stellar bass solo. Jon Anderson's dual combo attack with either piano or Fender Rhodes is a switchup as he performs with complete coolness on the ten minute opener "For RPMS." Miles Davis' timeless composition "Nardis" showcases an impressively hot drum solo by David Christian, which develops into an equally explosive drum and sax battle.
There's quality and truthfulness in the music of Sink of Swim that may clearly identify with discriminate listeners who want more than just an academic persona in their music.
Visit Gian Tornatore on the web.
Track Listing
1. For RPMS 2. Heaven's Dew 3. San Francisco Style 4. Prelude in C Minor Op. 28, No. 20 5. Upstate 6. Lotus 7. Three's A Crowd 8. Nardis
Personnel
Gian Tornatore
saxophoneGian Tornatore - Tenor & Soprano Saxophone; Jon Anderson - Piano & Fender Rhodes; Zach Wallmark - Bass; David Christian - Drums
Album information
Title: Sink or Swim | Year Released: 2004 | Record Label: Fresh Sound New Talent
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Comments
About Gian Tornatore
Instrument: Saxophone
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