Palatino

Paolo Fresu, the renowned Italian jazz trumpeter, flugelhorn player, composer, and arranger, invites you into his world with "Palatino," an enchanting cool jazz album released on June 2, 1995, under the prestigious Label Bleu. Born in Berchidda, Sardinia, in 1961, Fresu's musical prowess shines through in this captivating collection of nine tracks, each offering a unique blend of sophistication and warmth.

"Palatino" opens with the gentle, melodic "Dawn," setting the tone for the journey ahead. The album's title track, "Aléas," follows, showcasing Fresu's virtuosic playing and compositional skill. The cool jazz influence is evident in tracks like "Calabrian Nights" and "Glenn's Walk," where Fresu's flugelhorn takes center stage, delivering smooth, evocative solos that are as soothing as they are impressive.

The album also features a mix of instrumental and vocal tracks, with "Lulu Is Back in Town" being a standout example of the latter. Fresu's arrangements are intricate and engaging, with each track offering a unique blend of textures and rhythms. The interplay between the instruments is particularly noteworthy, with the trumpet and flugelhorn often taking the lead, supported by a rich tapestry of bass, piano, and percussion.

With a duration of just over 52 minutes, "Palatino" is a concise yet satisfying exploration of cool jazz, showcasing Paolo Fresu's considerable talents as both a player and a composer. Whether you're a longtime fan of jazz or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.