London-based Italian guitarist Andrea Rinciari‘s debut EP To Bud is a stellar first endeavour. With a passion for Bud Powell’s stylings, Rinciari has chosen six of his favourite tunes to showcase.
Rinciari is able to reflect the gentleness and beloved bounce of Bud Powell’s piano playing beautifully in each of these standards. His solos are thoughtful and creative and capture elements of Powell’s genius.
The melodies of these compositions are familiar but not instantly recognisable (as some of the more common Monk or Parker tunes have become) so there’s an element of surprise in hearing them, and hearing them on guitar adds to the enjoyment.
Each track unwraps a slightly new element to Rinciari’s trio, leaving the listener intrigued. So Sorry Please comfortably sets the tone and on the next tune, Oblivion, Rinciari starts with a beautiful solo rubato introduction, solidifying the melody before the rest of his trio kicks in. Strictly Confidential is a nice treat in the middle – a live take of Rinciari’s trio at Piano Bar Soho – and Audrey is a bubbly, up-tempo track with a terrific, Bud inspired solo. Sure Thing features an interesting counterpoint between Rinciari and Lorenzo Morabito on bass and Hallucinations allows a chance for Adam Merrell to let loose on the drums.
Rinciari’s dedication to this project will hopefully inspire more deep dives into musical heroes from the past and will only imprint itself into his identity as a composer. Fans are surely looking forward to what’s next.