Drummer/composers are a relatively rare breed in jazz, but
Aldo Romano is one of the most gifted on the scene. With a baker's dozen musicians (including himself) and thoughtful arrangements by
Lionel Belmondo,
Romano creates a powerful sound with reeds, brass, and rhythm section, often emphasizing the ensemble more so than than soloists, starting with the lovely bittersweet "Silenzio," which sounds like it could have been written for a film soundtrack. Trumpeter
Stefane Belmondo and pianist
Eric Legnini are showcased in the driving bossa nova "Pasolini." The elegant, lyrical waltz "For Michel" and the graceful "Touch of a Woman" (the latter with
Belmondo on flügelhorn) are also obvious highlights.
Romano plays guitar, sings, and co-composed an Italian lyric with
Yves Simon for his upbeat "Jazz Messengers." This is yet another rewarding date by
Aldo Romano. ~ Ken Dryden