Trumpeter Chris Botti explores his heritage on Italia, an artfully sentimental collection of originals and covers. Botti shows incredible dexterity here, gliding effortlessly between the melodious heights of Ennio Morricone’s “Deborah’s Theme” and a jazzy interpretation of “Gabriel’s Oboe” and onto a stunningly sensual reading of Lucio Dalla’s “Caruso.” Whether jamming with big bands (“The Way You Look Tonight”) or breaking through luscious orchestral strings (Puccini’s “Nessun Dorma”), Botti’s tone is pure and his heart is clear in this fantasia of memories and dreams.
- 2012
- Diana Krall
- David Benoit
- Rick Braun
- Peter White