Search - Francesco Crosara with Von Freeman :: Colors

Italy, Hawaii, and Chicago, the work of pianist/composer/arranger Francesco Crosara melds on "Colors", his SOUTHPORT Records debut. Francesco Crosara, the son of famed Italian vocalist Lilian Terry, calls Chicago home in 1999, but the music of his world travels paints a pastel portrait vivid with colors. In his youth spent in Italy, Francesco would meet jazz greats Dizzy Gillespie, Abbey Lincoln and Max Roach at after concert parties. Great music was a part of his family life and it was this inspiration that produced a need for him to perform and create. The music on "Colors" reflects a complex blend of two handed piano styles. Crosara calls Chick Corea one of his main influences, but we can also hear traces of Tommy Flanagan, McCoy Tyner and Herbie Hancock, and with Hancock's "Dolphin Dance" this CD begins. Crosara gently toys with the mature melody paving the way for his ensemble's entrance and setting the stage for Von Freeman- Chicago's own world famous tenor master. Crosara the composer offers the CDs title track, "Colors." Light softly falls from the essence of his melody as Freeman's tenor creates complex, somber shadows. From the "Hawaiian Sessions", Crosara offer the epic "Suite Venus." Traces of fusion with bold sweeping chords pulls jazz into the next century. The meeting of Francesco Crosara and Von Freeman is like that of those who encounter each other in the middle of a long journey. Their friendship, through their music can be felt in the warmth of this recording date. Southport Records is a true American independent label. For over 20 years Southport has recorded and produced new music, from Chicago to a world market. Radio and Media-- we appreciate your support!.