Forgotten Dreams marks the impressive debut of alto saxophonist Dave Pietro, an adventurous yet lyrically reflective musician who opts for open-ended fresh compositions and group empathy rather than virtuosic grandstanding. Complemented with the supremely supportive lineup of pianist Kenny Werner, guitarist Ben Monder, bassist Dave Holland and drummer Bill Stewart, Pietro flexes his authoritative, burnished tone and wistful phrasing through a florid collection of originals (and one standard) that masterfully balance the realms of structure and freedom.
The time spent with Maria Schnieder and Toshiko Akiyoshi is quite evident in the structural angularity and harmonic richness of his compositions. From the beautifully brooding “Mutability” that finds Pietro and company forging this set’s most musically free and telepathic statements, to the fresh treatment of the classic “If I Should Lose You,” this colorful debut introduces us to a skillful young player with remarkable musical maturity and an astute sense of composition and interpretation.
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