Joe Giglio Trio 3 Spirits
Bella Firenze Musica 2007
Sound sparks fly even before guitarist Joe Giglio jumps into the opener on this aptly named 3 Spirits set. For his composition “107 West” it’s Rob Thomas’ freewheeling violin that gets things going with an irrepressible sound reminiscent of Stephane Grappelli. Together he and Giglio make quite a pair, recalling the great duets with Django Reinhardt. The additional flavor added by Ron McClure’s bass grounds this tightly knit trio. Their intensely packed sound really gets going with Charlie Parker’s “Donna Lee”, turning into an extended string sizzler by all concerned. Any thoughts that the session is merely lingering nostalgia for Django & company are quickly burned off. A quartet of lighthearted vocals by Giglio of classics from the American songbook adds another flavor to the set. His singing style is casual and friendly in the manner of Matt Dennis. Typical is his approach to Rodgers & Hart’s “My Romance”, as breezily welcome as the first cold beer on a hot afternoon.