TONY SCOTT/FRANCO D'ANDREA QUARTET
Homage To Lady Day (Philology)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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Clarinetist Tony Scott was a friend and accompanist to Eleanor Fagin, the singer the world knew as Billie Holiday. It took him 40 years to get around to recording this tribute to the legendary Lady Day, and it's worth every day of the wait. The rhythm section that accompanies him, Franco D'Andrea on piano, bassist Attilio Zanchi and drummer Gianni Cazzola, provide a backdrop of strength and sensitivity for Scott's clarinet. The album was recorded with Scott in the studio as an observer, laying down his own tracks only after the rhythm tracks were complete, on all but one cut, "Lover Man," which he recorded directly with the ensemble.

Scott explains that he chose to record that way so that he could play more freely, focusing on his own thoughts of Billie Holiday without worrying about the interplay of the group. Whatever his reasons and methods, the process was successful. It freed the playing of both the rhythm section and the lead, and created a synthesis that is deeply emotional. Tony Scott has emerged from his bop roots and his new-age experiments as the senior statesman of the clarinet. It's always a pleasure to hear him blow, and on this one he flat out blows me away.

D'Andrea is an outstanding soloist as well as a first rate accompanist in his own right, playing inside or out. The bass and drums are effective if understated. Philology might not be the easiest label to locate at your local retailer, but this one is worth an extended search or a special order.

Track List:

Some Other Spring * There's No Greater Love * Everything Happens To Me * Don't Explain * Good Morning Heartache * You Are My Thrill * Come Rain Or Come Shine * Lover Man

© 2000 - Shaun Dale