Gino Lattuca feat. Philip Catherine - Bad Influence (2008)

While seeking out the right sound – one that is both suave and elegant – Gino Lattuca waited almost 18 years before releasing a new album as a bandleader (“My Impression” dates from 1992). It’s not that the trumpet player has been inactive – far from it. He is known to be one of the busiest members of the BJO. So while he was meeting and playing with musicians, he continued to work his instrument and earn a reputation as one of the country’s best trumpet players.

The fact that Philip Catherine accompanies him on the record as more than just an accompanist is no accident. The quality of Gino’s playing most likely has something to do with this. Throughout “Bad Influence”, the mutual respect of these two musicians is evident. Each leaves the other all the room they need to express themselves. It’s all about subtle and generous dialogue. Each melody is magnified. Listening to how the quartet takes on a few standards is enough to understand how unique the alchemy is. A lover of ballads that swing, Gino Lattuca could not resist a cheeky, facetious “Come Rain or Shine”, the brilliantly sunny “Along Came Betty” or the tender sensuality of “Theme for Ernie”.

The music each time is clear and bright. Gino’s playing is precise, sensitive and tender, creating a sound that is at all times tone perfect and delicate. Supported by a rhythm section that knows each other well (Bart De Nolf on double bass and Mimi Verderame on drums), the overall effect is very tight and attentive. Philip Catherine is also dazzling, with a virtuosity that is always at the service of the music.

Gino also co-wrote two tracks with Mimi Verderame (“Bad Influence” and a very strong “Expresso”) while Philip Catherine offers the swinging “Adriano” and Michel Herr the irresistible “Last Minute Blues”. It’s clear: this is an album created by musical friends. A true jazz record, but with what sorts of influences? How about Freddie Hubbard, Harry James or Woody Shaw? Or the encounters of life? Who cares, as the result is good vibrations more than anything else.

(Jacques Prouvost)