The Groove
Multiple Personalities
The Multiple Personalities of Lello Molinari
By Philipp Darjes
As suggested by the title, Lello Molinari's new album, Multiple Personalities, reflects the bass player's broad spectrum of interests, as well as the diverse musical contributions rendered by some of Berklee's finest faculty and alumni. The Italian-born Berklee's alumnus, and Ensemble Department faculty member, pays tribute to the music of his hometown, Naples as well as to such jazz greats as Thelonious Monk, Bill Evans, and John Coltrane.
Multiple Personalities' 11 Tracks start off with a Coltrane-inspired tune entitled "Anthony goes to Marty Gras", featuring the composer, tenor and soprano saxophonist George Garzone. The rather busy and dense nature of this engaging 24-bar minor blues is contrasted with the spacious and tender textures of "The Peacocks" with long time and collaborator Frank Carlberg, lending some Bill Evans-reminiscent touches. Three Thelonious Monk tunes ("Friday The 13th, " "Bemsha Swing", and "Boo Boo's Birthday") add a very energy-laden and hip facet to this album. The Neapolitan tunes on the album impart an exotic flavor, enhanced by soulful performances. Guitar pioneer Mick Goodrick tastefully introduces the slow changes to the ballad "Malafemmena," and is joined by the sensual voice of singer Chiara Civello, a recent Berklee Graduate. The catchy, up-beat ballad "Quando" and the jovial, folk mood of "tarantella" strike a chord with the listener due to their beauty and passionate deliverance. Other Musicians on Multiple Personalities, include drummers Marcello Pellitteri and Bob Gullotti, and trombonist Jeff Galindo. The musicians display a superb mastery of their instruments, and it is particularly noticeable how well the individuals communicate with one another what a mature sound the band has.
The musical diversity on Multiple Personalities, make this record interesting and pleasurable listening. If this article sparked your interest, you might check out the album from Berklee's CD library in the media center. You can also buy the album on the internet at http://lellomolinari.com. Mr. Molinari also welcomes all to his CD release party at the RegattaBar on Tuesday, October 2nd.
