Numero Uno
Laser, 2021
8/10
The guitar wizard Andre Ferreri has enjoyed an esteemed career playing all sorts of different genres of music, and here he’s focused on jazz and brings some exceptional help with him across bebop, swing and soulful textures.
“Mighty Fine” starts the listen with punchy drumming from Kobie Watkins as the frisky jazz climate benefits much from Quintetto’s agile guitar lines and Ziad Rable’s flowing sax, and “Seasons” follows with a calming display of soothing, melodic musicianship, where Mark Stalling mesmerizes us with his piano prowess amid playful drumming and soulful brass.
“Avia Pervia” lands in the middle and is one of the best tracks, as evidenced by Brad Wilcox’s trumpet skill, Philip Howe’s intricate keys, and, of course, Quintetto’s sublime guitar playing, while “We Were All Children”, another exceptional tune, brings much beauty to a cautious atmosphere of elegance. “Good Bones” then gets busy, dynamic and dreamy, as Quintetto’s finger acrobatics are as fascinating as they are exciting.
Close to the end, “Making Minor Changes” glides with stylish, warm and detailed song craft, and “Love Letter To Mary” exits the listen with much grace as it touches on both vintage and modern jazz sensibilities.
An effort that’s mood focused and often European at its core, Ferreri and company balance power and restraint in a very timeless landscape that you’ll want to revisit often.
Travels well with: Gabor Lesko- Earthway; Reza Khan- Imaginary Road