"Udu Calls," released on October 13, 2015, by Daniele Cavallanti, is a captivating journey into the world of hard bop, showcasing the masterful interplay between Cavallanti and drummer Tiziano Tononi. This album, spanning 1 hour and 14 minutes, is a testament to the duo's extensive experience and collaborative prowess, with Cavallanti on tenor sax and ney flute, and Tononi handling an impressive array of percussion instruments, including udus, gongs, and balafon.
The album features 12 original tracks, each offering a unique blend of improvisation and composition. From the serene "Opening: Peace (Take II)" to the lively "Climbin' Free / Fast Clave," the duo explores a range of moods and tempos, keeping the listener engaged throughout. Notable tracks include "Duo Vamp / Ba-Lu-Bolivar-Ba-Lués-Are," a reimagining of Thelonious Monk's classic, and "Three West African Tales," which highlights the duo's ability to weave narrative elements into their music.
Cavallanti and Tononi's chemistry is palpable, with each track showcasing their intuitive understanding of each other's playing styles. The album's production, engineered by Ferdinando Arnò, and artwork designed by Roberta Pettinella, further enhance the listening experience, making "Udu Calls" a standout release in the hard bop genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Cavallanti and Tononi or a newcomer to their work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Vinylscout