Riccardo Arrighini Trio - These Unfoolish Things (2001)

Riccardo Arrighini is yet another discovery of the prolific Philology label owner Paolo Piangiarelli. The pianist is joined by fellow Italians Ares Tavolazzi on bass, and drummer Francesco Petreni, for a program mixing a few well-known standards from the Great American Songbook with four originals by the leader. Arrighini's approach to "These Foolish Things" is a bit conservative and fairly predictable. But the disguised solo introduction to "Here's That Rainy Day" gives a better idea of his capabilities, as it develops into a free-flowing, brisk bop setting. His stunning, lyrical, improvised opening to "What is This Thing Called Love" is pure magic, as Tavolazzi adds a delightful fugue-like bassline once the trio joins in on the tune. Arrighini's originals pass muster as well. "Sulfureando Tango" is subtle and sensuous, while the gentle samba "Sayda Y Esteban" flows effortlessly, featuring a brilliant solo by Tavolazzi. "Two Days in Love" is every bit as sentimental as the thoughts of discovering a new love, romantic but not over done. "Ricordando Fulvio" begins as an easygoing waltz, though it loosens up a bit. Riccardo Arrighini shows a lot of promise as both a pianist and a composer on what seems to be his jazz debut as a leader. © Ken Dryden