From The Soul
Musica Solis, 2026
9/10
The bassoonist Frank Morelli returns with a 6th solo album, where the works of Wynton Marsalis, Dominick Argento, Lori Laitman, Jeff Scott and Nirmali Fenn are fleshed out with strong attention to detail.
Scott’s “Elegy For Innocence” opens with soothing bassoon playing that is met with Wei-Yi Yang’s thick, pounding keys, as the setting turns ominous and mysterious, and “I Never Saw Another Butterfly”, by Laitman, follows with Morelli’s wind that’s complemented by Janna Baty’s soaring mezzo-soprano across 6 movements of beauty.
Halfway through, Argento’s “Man With A Paint Box Aria From ‘Postcard From Morocco’” showcases the emotive bassoon in a solo setting that’s heartfelt, while “Meeelaan For Bassoon And String Quartet” pairs the animated bassoon with curious strings that emit a cinematic and playful 3 chapters that span blues, tango and bebop.
“Prayer” exits, and benefits from the emotive keys that align with Morelli’s soft, thoughtful gestures in the 10+ minutes of pensiveness.
An effort of very personal recordings, Morelli’s vision is one of soulfulness, where his playing is unparalleled and the contributors help make for much intimacy and sincerity.
Travels well with: Inbal Megiddo- Bach Cello Suites; Louise Dubin- Passages: French Cello Works