Cunliffe, Bill
Torii, 2017, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 23.2
Jazz Ruler Type: BigBand
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 68
O’s Notes: Bill Cunliffe was trained in classical piano before falling in love with jazz. On“BACHanalia, (also the name of his large ensemble) he transforms many of his classical favorites with generous improvisation and big band swing. He enlists Denise Donatelli to scat on “Sleeper’s Wake”, “Solfeggietto” and singing on “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”. We also enjoyed the powerful brass on “Afluencia” featuring Bob Sheppard (sax) and trumpeter Terell Stafford’s warm tone on “Blame It On My Youth”. Both of these along with a few others were recorded live at Vitello’s restaurant in Studio City, CA. Bill’s transformation is well above average and the music is easy to enjoy over multiple sessions.
Publicist: Braithwaite & Katz
