Mike Melillo's "La musica di Bruno Martino & Matt Dennis" is a captivating journey into the world of hard bop and bebop, released on the Philology label in July 2000. This album is a tribute to the timeless compositions of Bruno Martino and Matt Dennis, reimagined through the lens of Melillo's virtuosic saxophone, accompanied by the masterful guitar of Max De Aloe and the groovy bass lines of Massimo Moriconi.
Spanning 12 tracks and just under an hour, the album opens with the instrumental "Estate - Intro," setting the stage for a rich tapestry of jazz standards and original compositions. From the sultry "A" Come Amore to the swinging "Angel Eyes," Melillo and his bandmates breathe new life into these classic tunes, showcasing their impeccable musicianship and deep understanding of the jazz tradition.
The album's standout tracks include the hauntingly beautiful "Jessica," a showcase for Melillo's emotive saxophone playing, and the up-tempo "Let's Get Away from It All," a testament to the band's tight chemistry and infectious energy. The Italian lyrics of "Cos'hai trovato in lui" add a unique cultural flavor to the album, while the title track "Estate" and its reprise "E la chiamano estate" close the album on a high note, leaving the audience yearning for more.
"La musica di Bruno Martino & Matt Dennis" is not just a collection of songs, but a testament to the enduring power of jazz and the timeless appeal of Martino and Dennis' compositions. Mike Melillo and his bandmates have crafted an album that is both a tribute to the past and a celebration of the present, a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast.
