My review of Pierluigi Balducci's lovely new record, Blue from Heaven, today at All About Jazz.


A stellar date - also featuring woodwind/reed master Paul McCandless (Oregon), pianist John Taylor Kenny Wheeler, Meadow) - both leaders in their own right- and percussionist Michele Rabbia (known to ECM fans for his collaborations with fellow Italian, pianist Stefano Battaglia) - Blue in Heaven largely features original compositions from the Italian electric bassist, for whom Steve Swallow is a clear touchstone amongst many.


With McCandless aboard, it's hard for this record not to have, at times, shades of Oregon, but with a more Mediterranean ambience. Taylor adds his dense yet never overbearing harmonic sophistication, and Rabbia surprises here, in a more conventional rhythmic environment.


A terrific record that should not go overlooked. Review here.