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CD Review
Danilo Rea: Lirico
2003 EGEA Perugia-Italy
www.egearecords.it
(See January, 2004 NY Umbria Jazz Festival Review)
with
Danilo Rea on Solo Piano
Dr. Roberta Zlokower
March 29, 2004 This is a solo piano CD with smooth, sensual, and classically connected melodies, intermittently infused with jazz. Rea references extrapolated themes from operas by Puccini and Bizet, as well as Bernstein's West Side Story with original arrangements. There is an interior photo of an exquisite auditorium in Perugia, where Rea performed. Candles and brandy would be appropriate with this Lirico collection of Rea's romantic interpretations.
Notable tracks:
#5 – Un Bel Di Vedremo from Madama Butterfly -- Composed by Puccini. This is one of my favorite arias, here interpreted with lilting and lovely phraseology. This tragic theme is presented by Rea with understatement and undulating chords.
#8 – L'Amour Est Un Deseau Rebelle from Carmen – Composed by Bizet. Although the introduction is powerful, the piece transforms into an echo of what would have been a stronger and more structured presentation in the genre of opera. Rea adds jazzy interludes.
#9 – Maria from West Side Story – Composed by Leonard Bernstein. Rea introduces this piece directly through the familiar theme. He evokes a rippling effect, much like tiny waves at the bay. This is quintessential romance.
#10 – Recondita Armonia from Tosca – Composed by Puccini. Rea takes a scintillating aria and enhances its dimensions with soft edges.
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