Norm Amadio and Friends: Norm Amadio

Here is Ashante Infantry’s review of Norm Amadio’s new CD as it appears in the Tuesday December 29 Toronto Star.  Norman is a friend and a musical collaborator with my wife, jazz vocalist Julie McGregor.

(3.5 out of 4 stars)

Esteemed pianist Norm Amadio called in a few worthy pals (vocalists Marc Jordan and Jackie Richardson, saxophonist Phil Dwyer, Guido Basso on flugelhorn) for his latest project. The result – anchored by bassist Rosemary Galloway and drummer Terry Clarke – is one of the year’s top albums. Timmins native Amadio, into his sixth decade of performance, has an extensive resumé that includes collaborations with Miles Davis, Judy Garland and Mel Torme. One of Canada’s underrated players, he’s innovative and resonant on sprightly tunes penned by producer Andrew A. Melzer that have an air of familiarity; and veteran arranger Peter Cardinali delivers a big band’s punch. The disc also includes three clanging but intriguing 1966 recordings of Amadio’s celebrated trio with bassist Bob Price and drummer Stan Perry.

Top Track: Amadio has a dreamy solo on “My Love Can’t Wait.”

Click here for the Toronto Star page.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *