Three Chord Monte
Self-Released, 2024
9/10
One of the most versatile musicians in the New York City scene, Tony Romano brings along Paul Carlon, Jennifer Vincent and Rob Garcia for this modern jazz listen that’s a bit rugged.
“Cadillac Green” starts the listen with Romano’s edgy guitar alongside Carlon’s bright sax prowess for the rich delivery, and “Rhumba-Esque” follows with dreamy guitar amid Vincent’s strategic bass plucking.
“Onward And Upward” lands closer to the middle, and is melodic and fluid via Garcia’s crisp drums, while the title track is intimate and romantic, where the soulful sax is met with soft bass and meticulous guitar.
Close to the end, the frisky “Squirrelly” carries a bouncy mood that’s rhythmic and the album’s best, and “Home” exits with a mesmerizing demeanor that unfolds with intricate sax and hypnotic guitar interaction.
Romano’s resume is quite impressive, and here he emerges from his usual sideman position to front and center for a stylish, harmonic and dynamic effort.
Travels well with: Terry Waldo- Treasure: Volume 1; Suzanne Pittson- Emerge Dancing