Recorded on May 8th, 2011 live at Round Midnight, Trieste by Don Menza.
Bernd says:
“I was very excited at the beginning of 2011 when my former professor, Renato Chicco, proposed to put together an organ trio with the legendary Don Menza. On short notice we were able to organize four concerts: Jazzkeller Frankfurt, Jazzbar Vogler Munich, Jazzclub Garmisch and last, Round Midnight Trieste. This brief tour was the first time I had the opportunity to play with Don, and marked the beginning of an enduring musical and personal relationship which has influenced me on so many levels over the years! Don had recorded the concert in Trieste and it has just been rediscovered now, nearly 10 years later. Since it demonstrates all the great spirit, joy and fun we had had on this first get-together, we have decided to release it. On the day of the recording, we had taken a spectacular eight-hour drive through the Alps, stopping for a memorable coffee/grappa break in beautiful Cortina d'Ampezzo and arriving just in time for the set up. Everybody was tired when we arrived in Trieste, but at the same time looking forward to performing. The audience was filled with friends and former students of Don and Renato, which made it particularly special - I am sure you will hear the emotion and warmth on this recording, which brings back many wonderful memories!”
Bernd Reiter
Renato says:
“This live recording marks a personal highlight of a very successful musical collaboration. Don Menza’s saxophone sound and inspired playing in combination with the interplay of the trio are first-rate. As an organ player, I couldn’t ask for more - being surrounded by a soloist of Menza’s league and supported by a swinging drummer such as Bernd Reiter (note in particular the incredible Spizzichino cymbals used on this date!) is musical heaven!”
Renato Chicco