Solo 3: Woods

Album Description

Franco D'Andrea, the virtuoso pianist known for his captivating solo performances, presents "Solo 3: Woods," the third installment in his acclaimed solo piano series. Released on September 11, 2001, under the Philology label, this album is a testament to D'Andrea's mastery of bebop, jazz, and hard bop genres. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, "Solo 3: Woods" features seven intricate and engaging tracks, including "Ode A Jean Louis," "My Man Benny," and "Gar's Walts, Banja Luka."

D'Andrea's "Solo" series, which began with "Solo 1: Standards" and "Solo 2: Abstractions" earlier in 2001, showcases his extraordinary ability to convey a full range of emotions and complexities through his piano playing. "Solo 3: Woods" is no exception, offering a rich and immersive experience for jazz enthusiasts. The album's title track, "Woods," is a standout piece that highlights D'Andrea's technical prowess and his deep understanding of jazz traditions.

Throughout his career, Franco D'Andrea has been recognized as a leading figure in the jazz world. His work with the Franco D'Andrea Sextet and collaborations with other renowned artists further cement his status as a master of the keys. "Solo 3: Woods" is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore the depths of solo piano jazz, and it stands as a shining example of Franco D'Andrea's extraordinary talent.

11 september 2001

Philology

Paolo Piangiarelli

About Franco D'Andrea

Franco D'Andrea, born in 1941 in Merano, Italy, is a titan of the jazz world, renowned for his innovative approach to the piano and his prolific discography of over 200 albums. D'Andrea's journey began at the age of 17 when he started playing the piano, having previously explored the trumpet and soprano sax. His career is marked by a rich tapestry of collaborations with some of the most esteemed musicians in jazz, as well as his own compositions that blend bebop, jazz, and hard bop influences.

D'Andrea's work is not just about the music; it's about the exploration of sound and the connections between different musical genres. His album "Franco D’Andrea meets Dj Rocca" is a testament to this, merging jazz and electronics in a way that pushes the boundaries of traditional jazz. His teaching roles at prestigious institutions like the Accademia Nazionale di Siena Jazz and the MeranOjazz Academy further cement his status as a mentor and innovator in the jazz community. With a career spanning over five decades, Franco D'Andrea continues to inspire and influence, making him one of Italy's most celebrated jazz pianists and composers.