"Cycladic Moods" is a captivating jazz album by Franco Ambrosetti, released on April 27, 2012, under the ENJA RECORDS Matthias Winckelmann label. This album is a testament to Ambrosetti's mastery of the trumpet and flugelhorn, accompanied by an ensemble of talented musicians including Gian Luca Ambrosetti on soprano saxophone, Abraham Burton on tenor saxophone, and Geri Allen on piano. The album spans a full hour, featuring nine tracks that blend smooth melodies with intricate improvisations.
The album opens with "Instant Correlation," setting a tone of sophistication and depth that carries through to the final track, "Peace." Each song, from the mystical "Mystic Dawn" to the evocative "Aegean Waves," showcases Ambrosetti's ability to weave together complex compositions with a sense of harmony and balance. "Seven Bofors" and "Where the Sun Never Sets" offer dynamic contrasts, while "In Real Time" and "Mirobop" highlight the ensemble's collective virtuosity. The album concludes with "Blues for My Friends," a poignant tribute that underscores the album's thematic coherence and musical richness.
"Cycladic Moods" is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and anyone appreciating refined, intricate music. The album's intricate arrangements and the seamless interplay between the musicians make it a standout in the genre, offering a rich listening experience from start to finish.