Renato Sellani Trio - A mina (2003)

Jazz musicians all too frequently stick to standards from the Great American Songbook, so it makes sense for pianist Renato Sellani to put together a program of originals by modern composers of his native Italy. While nearly all of these songs may be unfamiliar to listeners outside of Europe, each of them proves to be a terrific vehicle for Sellani's trio, which includes bassist Massimo Moriconi and drummer Massimo Manzi. The leader contributed the touching "Amina" (heard separately in a solo version and a trio performance), while Moriconi composed the pretty ballad "Cosi," played as a solo by Sellani. There are several guests added as well. Vocalist Tiziana Ghiglioni is featured in the haunting "Le Mille Bolle Blu" (the saxophonist is strangely unidentified, though it is likely Gianni Basso). Patrizia Conte is the singer on a playful duet of "Grande Grande Grande." Flügelhornist Enrico Rava joins the trio for the playful "Munastero 'e Santa Chiara." This enjoyable session is warmly recommended. © Ken Dryden