Arrivederci Roma, Love American Style
Stradivari, 2020
8/10
The Montreal tenor Perry Canestrari returns with his esteemed multi-lingual approach to timeless song craft, as he displays his passion for the time honored traditions of Italian music and its rich history on Arrivederci Roma, Love American Style.
“Malafemmena” starts listen with soothing strings and warm keys as Canestraris’ strong vocals guide the emotive, stirring opener, and “Arrivederci Roma” follows with a dreamy, cinematic quality to the classically influenced setting.
Closer to the middle, “Caruso” moves with a bare quality as sublime singing is aligned with pensive keys, while “My Way”, which was popularized by Frank Sinatra, recruits a soulful quality amid strategic percussion and timeless melody. “O Sole Mia”, one of the album’s best, then displays incredible vocal prowess as lush textures enter the romantic mood.
Deeper into the record, “Volare” brings sweeping strings into the soaring atmosphere, and “Opera Medley- Nessun Dorma, La Donna é Mobile, Ave Maria” exits with an indeed operative delivery of precise and cultured songwriting.
Certainly a must hear listen for those who adore Italian music, Canestrari pulls off an impressive performance here with the sort of exceptional singing that has made him a national treasure in Canada.
Travels well with: Jeannie Seely- An American Classic; Jeannie C. Riley- The Music City Sessions