Italia

I'm not much of a jazz fan, more classical, and I never listened to Chris Botti play before listening to Italia, but after listening to Italia, I am lost for words to describe how much I enjoyed his music. I do admit that Bocelli helped me decide to purchase the CD. I'm a Bocelli fan. I usually pass up the Jazz section in the store but I found Botti's CD in a Walmart store mixed in with the small classical CD section. I always believed that gifted performers, such as Bocelli, will choose to perform with other gifted performers and my theory was proven correct. Chris Botti is truly a gifted performer and am happy to add his music to my library.

I am a Botti fan from way back. And was critical of his last effort. But boy, is this one good. Not any jazz to my ear, but straght forward playing of beatiful melodies in the smooth Botti style. The theme is Italy, as you would deduce from the title and nicely carried through. Three tracks with vocals, one with Dean Martin in one of those post retirement duets that seem to be in vogue, but well done, none the less. That particular song is on a new Martin Album of duets. Good, no great, stuff here. Quite moving really.
Got to believe this will be the big romance album of the year. Another notch on Botti's horn for a job exceedingly well done.

"Chris Botti has the integrity of Miles Davis, the sexiness of Chet Baker and sells records like Kenny G. It's a triple combination." ~ David Foster ~

The whole-page ad from September 23rd issue of L.A. Times Arts & Music Section on this latest offering from my all-time favorite trumpeter-extraordinaire states that . . . "No one can resist the pleasures of Italy." It is especially true! And this irresistible CD/DVD Special Edition is the very essence of beauty and romance of Italy captured in a variety of songs and melodies recorded in Los Angeles, London and Italy in the most superb renditions, arrangements and orchestrations. This collection is an excellent combination of classical music, jazz standards and film scores. Featured guest artists who graced this wonderful recording are also my favorites, Andrea Bocelli, Paula Cole, and not to mention a special "magical collaboration" with the great Dean Martin.

It has a bonus DVD that shows the "Making of...Read more