Stracci
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The pianist, composer and arranger Michael Ragonese is surrounded by Luca Alemanno and Mark Ferber for these 6 originals and 2 standards that honor his Italian-American heritage.
“Solar”, by Miles Davis, opens the listen with a very playful, modern spin that uses Ferber’s meticulous drums alongside the flowing keys from Ragonese, and “Escape”, an original, follows with classical nods that leads into an exciting drum solo, but not before some reflective and warm song craft.
“Tides Of Tomorrow” comes with 2 parts and lands in the middle, where Alemanno’s skilled bass plucking suits the darker melodies and contemplative spirit, while “La Pioggia, a live selection, finds Ragonese’s staccato playing mimicking the sound of rain amid the dynamic and energetic rhythm section.
The listen ends with “Copycat”, as complicated rhythms and glowing harmonies populate the swing ideas that make this the album’s best.
This is Ragonese’s sophomore album, and his experience touring, performing and recording with some of the best in the industry helps make for a charming, contemporary jazz affair.
Travels well with: The Harry Allen Orchestra- With Roses; John Allee- Past Imperfect