Circular Motion

If you love the piano, you're in for a treat! Indeed, according to DownBeat, 'An Italian-born pianist, Crosara is well-versed in the tradition of bop, and his delicate flow could suggest a debt to Bill Evans.' For Jazz Times, '... precious insights into his fertile imagination and harmonic boldness.' And for Bayou Blue Radio, an exceptional album in which pianist Francesco Crosara rises to the Top Ten of jazz composers who deserve to be known, this album is proof. We listen to it passionately, return to it with joy, served by remarkable musicians: Francesco Crosara on acoustic piano and synthesizer. Compositions by Francesco Crosara / Ecila Music, BMI. Clipper Anderson on acoustic bass (2,4,5,8), Farko Dosumov on electric bass (1,3,7,9), Osama Afifi on electric bass (6,10), Mark Ivester on drums (2,4,5,8), D'Vonne Lewis on drums (1,3,7,9), and Xavier Lecouturier on drums (6,10).

Various musicians intervene throughout the tracks to bring a particular touch that fits the overall sound. The influences from his early days in Rome with Chick Corea and Dizzy Gillespie, as well as his move to the United States and his program at USC, always remain present. Three different rhythm sections bring his music to life, each adding varied sonic textures and rhythmic vitality to the whole. The double bassist Clipper Anderson and drummer Mark Ivester swing and float; the vibrant rhythms of electric bassist Farko Dosumov and drummer D'Vonne Lewis provide a modern impetus; and the youthful eclecticism of bassist Osama Afifi and drummer Xavier Lecouturier adds another dimension.

Such well-structured music is refreshing. Instead of using superlatives, it's probably best to listen to this album, which is one of the 'favorites' of Bayou Blue Radio and Paris-Move.