Le Tre Sorelle
Shifting Paradigm, 2023
8/10
A highly cultured outfit consisting of Anthony Taddeo, Amanda Powell, Dan Bruce, Tommy Lehman, Ian Kinnaman, and Clay Colley, as Alla Boara they illuminate Italian folk sounds via their careful arrangements that hosts many guests.
“Alla Boara” opens the listen with Michael Ward-Bergeman’s warm accordion complementing Powell’s expressive voice and Chris Coles’ soprano saxophone and effects, and “Le Tre Sorelle” follows with harmonic singing that benefits much from Jamey Haddad’s diverse percussion.
Moving into the middle, “Fimmene, Fimmene” is a very pretty moment of poetic singing and playful drumming from Taddeo, while “Almond Sorters”, the album’s best, is a rich track thanks to Lehman’s radiant trumpet and Kinnaman’s animated bass.
Closer to the end, Dan Mihelarakis’ guitars are much appreciated across the hazy “Funeral Lament”, and “Mi Me Ne Fon” exits with soulful horn, powerful singing and Colley’s flexible accordion.
An effort of hymns, lullabies, and festive moments, there’s a unique, worldly flavor to these songs, and it results in both an enlightening and memorable listening experience.
Travels well with: Dylan Jack Quartet- Eine Quartett Des Grauens; Ben Miller Trio- Feathers Of Ma’at