Nico Di Battista/Rrok Jakaj/Gianluca Fuiano: The Dream

By combining world music influences of modern Italy, Brazil, and other locales with styles including tango and flamenco, The Dream challenges yet embraces many categories to create music that is modern yet retains the rich history of its many roots. This end result is accomplished by three Italian musicians: guitarist Nico Di Battista, percussionist Gianluca Fuiano, and violinist Rrok Jakaj.

The twelve compositions were written by Battista and are a listening treat as the trio performs with a level of musicianship that enables the music to be appreciated on many levels. Battista is an outstanding player, incorporating a variety of detailed guitar and synthesized sounds, including the specialized DB Guitar on the melodic "Day by Day" and the short piece "Lolo," which showcases its multi-timbre qualities.

The opening title track, "The Dream," starts with a sweet drum solo by Fuiano and then surrounds the listener with lush acoustic guitar and exotic percussion. The engaging music is modern without the "contemporary" stereotypes. On "The Sky" the upbeat tempo is a mix of electronic and acoustic sounds as Jakaj's violin skills add a twist to the catchy dance groove theme.

Various music influences ring clear on "The Tango for Piazzolla" and the eclectic "Sahara," which brings to mind Greek dance music with an exceptional acoustic guitar solo by Battista. One of the many highlights is "All in One," which starts with a slow guitar/viola melody and then transforms into a wonderful drum march cadence as the music gives way to strong guitar and drum solos against the fading vamp. The Dream is filled with exquisite, enjoyable, and expansive music created by world class musicians.