Mr. Dodo

Although Rosario Giuliani is one of Europe's most respected musicians and is widely considered to be among Italy's best, to date his significant sound is somewhat unknown across the Atlantic Ocean. However, with Mr. Dodo, the follow-up to his highly acclaimed Dreyfus label recording titled Luggage, the remarkable alto/soprano saxophonist should garner more appreciation from jazz enthusiasts outside of continental Europe, because he offers listeners such a powerful program of daring, passionate, and hard-swinging jazz. A total of 11 songs, eight of which were written by Giuliani, take listeners through an array of musical emotions and bring back the articulate lyricism reminiscent of the sounds of altoists Eric Dolphy, Sonny Fortune, and Jackie McLean. On the soprano, Giuliani is more in the tradition of Wayne Shorter, Steve Lacy, and Eric Person, and is in complete control -- melodically and lyrically. However, on both instruments he consistently involves his listeners with concepts and improvisations that command their attention. Top picks include "The Blessing" and "The Cover," but more importantly, Giuliani's originals "Mimi" and "From the Ashes" beautifully reveal his talents as a composer. ~ Paula Edelstein|