The Libretto Show
Tudortone, 2023
8/10
The pianist Jeff Babko and bassist David Piltch fleshed out these 8 lively jazz pieces live at the budding Libretto Jazz Lounge in Paso Robles, California, and it represents a strong chemistry between the pair.
“Dorothy” opens the listen with complicated keys and much attention to mood in the diverse delivery, and “Fair Enough” follows with a reflective tone that uses Piltch’s bass sparingly but strategically.
In the middle, “Ligia”, by Jobim, displays a cautious rhythm that employs Songa Lee’s violin in a stirring fashion, while “Souvenirs Of Hollywood”, an original, spotlights Piltch’s playful plucking amid the sophisticated key progressions.
Approaching the end, “Blue And Red” finds itself in lower registers of restraint with emphasis on tone, and “A Rescue” exits the set with firm piano and timeless jazz spirit that the pair embrace in spades.
Babko has an impressive resume spanning 30 years that includes touring with James Taylor, Toto, Steve Gadd and Sheryl Crow, among others, and Piltch has experience playing with Blood, Sweat, Holly Cole and K.D. Lang to name a few. Together, they bring blues, soul, Latin ideas and plenty of spontaneity to this engaging listen.
Travels well with: Septology- The Black Forest Session; Scott Peptito- Many Worlds