Tenor saxophonist Gianni Basso is better known to European audiences, while trumpeter and flügelhornist Enrico Rava has had greater international exposure through recordings for more widely distributed labels; but they represent some of the top players on the continent. Joined by a superb rhythm... [+] Expand

Tenor saxophonist Gianni Basso is better known to European audiences, while trumpeter and flügelhornist Enrico Rava has had greater international exposure through recordings for more widely distributed labels; but they represent some of the top players on the continent. Joined by a superb rhythm section (pianist Andrea Pozza, bassist Luciano Milanese, and drummer Stefano Bagnoli), they cruise through a set focusing mostly on standards, ranging from the 1920s through the 1950s, with a couple of surprises. Among the highlights are two lilting takes of "Bye, Bye Blackbird," a pair of warm interpretations of "All the Things You Are" (where Rava is heard on both open and muted trumpet to good effect), a relaxed "Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?," and a buoyant performance of the old warhorse "Tea for Two." Among the more interesting choices are the lush takes of The Gypsy" (forever associated with Louis Armstrong) and Dizzy Gillespie's timeless ballad "I Waited for You." This is one of many gems that make the Philology label worth exploring at length. ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide [-] Collapse

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