Uri Caine - The Othello Syndrome (2008)

Keyboardist Uri Caine has previously explored the music of Bach, Mozart, Wagner, and Beethoven, so it is hardly surprising that he continues to use classical composers as a source of inspiration for his improvisations. This outing draws on excerpts from Giuseppe Verdi's opera Otello, with the pianist incorporating his usual wild arrangements. Caine is obviously very familiar with the music, but willing to take chances, as in his playful setting of "Fire Song" and a klezmer-like setting of "Drinking Song." Opera fans without a sense of humor will scoff at this recording, but Caine shows a love of the music, even in his madcap charts. The supporting cast includes saxophonist Ralph Alessi, guitarist Nguyên Lê, clarinetist Chris Speed, plus several vocalists and occasional use of electronics.