Please, report back on the new Sportiello when you listen to it. I really loved his debut album on Arbors!
I will do. I already have his two solo records on Arbors and Jazz Connaisseur and love them both. So I am looking forward to this new effort.
This is a wonderful album. Sportiello is splendid, covering stride, swing (Teddy Wilson, Count Basie, hints of Art Tatum) and be bop (Red Garland, Barry Harris, his teacher and mentor), he has a beautiful touch and swings effortlessly. Nicki Parrot's bass playing is a revelation: She has a big round tone and superb timing. Nicki also sings on a few tracks. She is an above average, if not exceptional singer, reminding me a bit of Stacey Kent. If you love Sportiello's solo album on Arbors you may also want to have this one.
Thanks for this review, Tommy T. I'll put this one on my wish list for Christmas!