Barney Wilen Quintet - Passione (1995) [2015 SACD]

French saxophonist Barney Wilen is one of the most renowned European jazz musicians. Wilen performed with Miles Davis in 1957 on the Ascenseur pour l'echafaud soundtrack. He has also worked with Kenny Clarke and Thelonious Monk on other film soundtracks. During the last ten or so years of his life, Wilen has a career resurgence thanks in part to his releases on Venus Records.
Passione, recorded in June 1995, was Wilen's last recording as he passed away the following year at age 59. Not showing any indication of his illness, Passione displays Wilen in top form, sounding at ease, inspired, and powerful. One of Italy's most well-known jazz musicians, trumpeter Enrico Rava, joins Wilen to create a very appealing front line.
Wilen is supported by a highly competent rhythm section. The quintet cheerfully swings on "Jitterbug Waltz" and Gerry Mulligan's "Line for Lyons," and displays strong emotion on the gorgeous "Estate" and the title track. The eclectic program also includes Latin and Italian songs. This exceptional album effectively captured Wilen's final creative spark.

Tracks:

1. Jitterbug Waltz
2. My Ship
3. Line For Lyons
4. Estate
5. Venetian Rumba
6. Passione
7. Begonia
8. Besame Mucho
9. Bella Chao
10. I Cover The Waterfront
11. Al Herraz

Personnel:

Barney Wilen, tenor saxophone, alto saxophone, soprano saxophone
Enrico Rava, trumpet
Alain Jean-Marie, piano
Gilles Naturel, bass
Philippe Soirat, drums