Description
Entirely dedicated to the legendary American pianist Bill Evans, Evanscape was conceived in the demanding, minimalist duo format. Through an intimate, conversational approach, free from any trace of mannerism, pianist Enrico Pieranunzi and guitarist Bebo Ferra probe the innermost mystery of a genius whose expressive language combined charm and intellect are in equal measure.
Drawing on languorous ballads at unhurried tempos, the program alternates reinterpretations of emblematic Evans themes - 'Song for Helen', 'Very Early', 'Once Upon a 'Summertime' - with a series of inspired original pieces. Occasionally joined by the deep, reassuring double bass of Diego Imbert ('Song for Helen', 'Calling Enrico'), they move from post-romantic atmospheres to more introverted lyrical passages, steering clear of both sentimental excess and detached formalism.
Enrico Pieranunzi belongs not only to that lineage of enchanting keyboard masters, for which Italy is renowned, but also to the small circle of European pianists who, over the past fifty years, have left a lasting imprint on the international jazz landscape. He began his jazz career in the early 1970s by accompanying American musicians in his native Rome - Johnny Griffin, Art Farmer, then Chet Baker, Jim Hall and Lee Konitz, with whom he recorded several landmark albums. He formed his first trio in 1975 and has since released over 80 albums as a leader.
Bebo Ferra has been recognised since the mid-1990s as one of the most gifted instrumentalists in contemporary Italian jazz -- a dazzling stylist in any genre, and a sought-after partner of Enrico Rava, Franco D'Andrea, Paolo Fresu and Rita Marcotulli, among others.
Enrico Pieranunzi: piano
Bebo Ferra: guitar
Diego Imbert: double bass (guest on two tracks)
