Stefano Tanzi: Wrong Together

Stefano Tanzi is an up-and-coming Italian guitarist with a knack for smooth playing. His debut as leader, Wrong Together, is essentially a tribute to jazz legend Steve Swallow, but it also communicates so much more. With the assistance of Emanuele di Teodoro on bass and Fabio Colella on drums, the trio works with sleek skill. The music is gentle, the tunes are delicate, and yet the sound does not slip away unnoticed. Tanzi moves with grace but remembers to give his audience something interesting to chew on, too.

A mix of more familiar songs like "Ladies in Mercedes" and "Falling Grace" as well as lesser-played compositions, the release simmers in a pleasantly consistent tone. Though a short project at around 35 minutes total, the pieces speak for themselves, never falling into languor or unnecessary stillness. "Falling Grace" displays agile fingering by di Teodoro while Tanzi waits his turn to introduce the melody. Though the guitarist might not have much experience leading a group, he exhibits a commanding presence. A fine balance is struck and works its way into the pieces, letting them blossom.

As the tracks come in and fade out, a John Scofield influence becomes apparent. Scofield has long worked with Swallow, so it is little surprise that this trio would display similar sonic tendencies. "Ever After" is one piece that offers a subtle Scofield flavor. It is a softer song that weaves its way through the three instruments. Tanzi and his team handle the tune with care, making it a clear highlight of the release. They do not rush through it but rather allow it to unfold and deliver its impact without being heavy- handed.

What first might have been an exercise in homage for Tanzi turned into something more, something deeper. Working with a smaller number of musicians has its challenges, especially if they are playing the work by one composer. Yet the trio does not wallow in Swallow's tunes. Instead, they apply a light touch, a sensitive ear. Wrong Together does little wrong actually. Would the album have been stronger if there was a more diverse tracklist? Sure, but Scofield similarly keeps to a certain atmosphere and mood.

Italian guitarist Stefano Tanzi shows a lot of skill, restraint and ingenuity with this collection of tracks. Pieces like "Peau Douce" and "She Was Young" are made to dance through the musicians' collective skills and ease of communication. His team plays with a soft smile and steady hands, allowing the music to flow smoothly. It is a solid debut as leader with several tracks that sing sweetly and shine nicely.