Фирма Tǔk Music

This is the second chapter of the collaboration between Francesco and Tuk Music. The electronic and experimental side of his music changes, and becomes here more acoustic and relaxed. Always focused on a great interplay and soul. Record Label: Tuk Music Style: Jazz

Record Label: Tuk Music Style: Jazz

Italian trumpeter Paolo Fresu has always been more angel than devil, though he's fronted quartets that name check both of those respectively heavenly and hellish entities. His horn work is coolly lyrical and spellbinding, regardless of the setting it's found in, but Fresu also has an impish side to his personality that takes over at certain times; he taps into that deviousness in a few places on Desertico, but the majority of the music is gorgeous, reflective and peaceful. While the title of the record points to the dry, arid and lifeless spaces of this world, the songs are anything but. Fresu and his Devil Quartet create music brimming with life, clarity, sensitivity and strength; Desertico is a musical oasis, not a barren desert Record Label: Tuk Music Style: Jazz

While the connection between Cuban pianist Omar Sosa and Italian trumpeter Paolo Fresu was established back in 2006, their partnership truly blossomed with Alma (Ota Music, 2012), a beauty of an album with a soft sell approach. That record—quite possibly the most moving item in either man's discography—prioritized heart over all else, and this follow-up date follows suit. Eros—the god of love—serves as muse and sculptor on this easygoing outing. Sosa and Fresu are both in fine form, lulling the listener into a space where the many different faces of love serve as guides, and they bring a smart mixture of passion and prudence to bear in the music. That's evident from the start, as "Teardrop-Ya Habibi"—a clever take on a Massive Attack song, featuring vocalist Natacha Atlas—takes flight. Arabian sounds, hints of neo-soul, and moody notions are all blended and molded into a shapely design that's simply mesmerizing. Elsewhere these two move in different stylistic directions while maintaining that same balance, addressing the need for emotional release and restraint. "Sensuousness" and "What Lies Ahead"—pieces which utilize the rich cello work of Jaques Morelenbaum—capitalize on candidness. Lyricism and wistfulness take hold and never let go. Then there's "Zeus' Desire," a number that blends new age sentiments with quaint thoughts and positive spirits; "My Soul, My Spirit," a work that features Atlas and operates in a cinematic realm not too far removed from the work of Lisa Gerrard with Hans Zimmer; and "Eros Mediterraneo," which opens on Fresu in a pensive state before shifting to sunnier environs. All of it is of a piece, yet each track has its own identifying markers and personality traits. Both Sosa and Fresu are masters of putting across moving thoughts. They say more with less, artfully color their true voices with electronic effects, and place equal value on atmosphere and substantial thought throughout these understated tales of love Record Label: Tuk Music Style: Jazz