Matt Criscuolo with Strings
Melancholia
M Records
By George W. Harris

This is the first time I’ve heard anything by this altoist; he’s had two other previous releases. I’m not sure where he’s been hiding, but he’s definitely going places. First, he’s got his own sound on the alto; soft, hazy, but confident. Secondly, this disc is not your typical “with strings” session that has the horn player embellishing themes with generic string support. The strings, cleverly arranged by pianist Larry Willis (boy, is HE staging a comeback!) are almost songs in themselves, with their brooding and shifting themes . The songs, a mix of originals along with lesser known gems by Hancock, Shorter and Billy Ecstine, are rich, film noirish sepia tones that have soft hands that craftily draw you into their clutches. Criscuolo’s own “When In Rome” and “Pensivity” are invitingly brooding, while Hancock’s “Tell Me A Bedtime Story” is an aural equivalent of nimbus clouds. Original, artistic, accessible and yet challenging. This is the kind of surprises I want for the rest of 09!