by Grady Harp
Massimo Biolcati studied both classical and jazz bass in Italy and Sweden before moving of Boston to attend the Berklee College of Music and then Los Angeles on a scholarship to Thelonius Monk Institute of Jazz at USC, settling in New York City where he is highly regarded for his musicianship and compositions. In his words, ‘The impetus for this recording was to bring together musicians that I love and respect and to let them freely explore some of my original compositions and arrangements of old and new songs I like. Bringing these musicians together proved to be a successful recipe as the chemistry was strong and the music came to life through deep listening and interaction amongst all.’
The ensemble – Massimo Biolcati – bass, Dayna Stephens – tenor, soprano and baritone Saxophones, Sam Yahel – piano, organ, and Jongkuk Kim – drums.
The tracks include four original compositions by Massimo – Hello, I Lied, Incontre, Fellini, and Birthday Song, Almost – in addition to Boo Boo’s Birthday, Smile, Everybody Wants To Rule The World, Duke Ellington’s Sound Of Love, and How’s Never.
Fine ensemble sound and experience – and another hit for Massimo Biolcati.