Joe Giglio/Joe Diorio
Rainbow/Shards
Joe Giglio’s recently released CD, Rainbow/Shards—a duo recording with jazz guitar great Joe Diorio—is one of the finest duo guitar performances I have ever heard. In a world filled with ego and guitarists always trying to showcase their musical muscles with how fast they can play, these two artists were able to “let go” and let the spirit of the music take over. In the same vain of guitarists such as Ed Bickert, Jim Hall, Peter Bernstein, Jimmy Wyble, Larry Koonse, and Pat Kelley, to name a few, they both have a humble confidence in their ability to deeply listen to one another—allowing the music to speak for itself.
The recording took place at 107 West in New York City, an intimate restaurant in which Joe played regularly for eight years with other notable guitar greats: Jack Wilkins, Howard Alden, Paul Bollenback, Peter Bernstein, and Carl Barry among others. This album, which was recorded live, was one of the last sessions Joe Diorio did before he suffered a stroke in 2005 that robbed him of full use of his left hand. Diorio, now in physical therapy, is currently working towards regaining use of his left hand. I, along with the entire musical kingdom, have him in our thoughts and prayers, wishing him a speedy recovery with the hope of having the honor of hearing him play again soon.
The CD consists of five standards in which both Joes let their imagination take over, taking risks, and feeding on one another. The songs are Days of Wine and Roses, Body And Soul, You or No One, Black Orpheus, and Out of Nowhere. Both musicians stretch out throughout the recording, building motives and taking extended solos that build and hold the listeners attention. Both Joe Giglio and Joe Diorio have the melodic and harmonic vocabulary to keep the music interesting, taking the listener on a joyful adventure. The CD can be purchased from Joe Giglio’s website: http://www.joegiglio.com/
Reviewed by Brandon Bernstein