Debut Album
The eight original compositions that make up guitarist's Greg Ruggiero's debut recording have a deeply introspective air, with gently rocking rhythms and simply stated melodies that often give the album an instrumental pop feeling. But there's plenty of emotional depth here, too, as Ruggiero quietly draws delicate, ethereal designs with electric and acoustic guitars, levitating on Frank LoCrasto's sympathetic piano and keyboard patterns. Rob Wilkerson's sweet alto saxophone brings the quartet back to earth, while Tommy Crane's drumming supports the melodies and eases them forward.
—Jazz Times Magazine
Bio
Photo by Genevieve Russell
Residing in Brooklyn, New York, Greg Ruggiero continues to develop his art alongside some of the finest young musicians on the scene today. In May 2007, Greg’s debut record “Balance” was released on the jazz record label Fresh Sound New Talent. As a side man, Greg has recorded on saxophonist Logan Richardson’s “ Ethos” for Greg Osby’s Inner Circle Records, Drummer Nick Halley’s “Barnum Hill”, Kokyu’s self titled release, and the soon to be released Gavin Fallow Quartet.
Ruggiero is on the New School University Applied Music teaching roster and is on staff at the Academy of Creative Education in Los Angeles, California. He was a 2004 guest artist and clinician at the Crossties Jazz Festival hosted by Delta State University in Greenville, Mississippi along with Mulgrew Miller. In 2005, Ruggiero was honored to take part in the Jazz of Enchantment radio program and educational series as one of the top 20 Jazz artists associated with his home state of New Mexico, including such artists as Frank Morgan, Bobby Shew and fellow colleagues Rob Wilkerson and Matt Brewer (Greg Osby 4). Greg performs as an integral member of the band “Buy My Book”, the Gavin Fallow Quartet (Jeremy Pelt), Logan Richardson and many others, as well as leading his own trio and quartet. Continuing to widen his musical interest and foundation, Ruggiero seeks inspiration from a diverse pallet of musical genres as well as, the invaluable inspiration of his friends and colleagues.
Guitarist Greg Ruggiero releases his debut record “Balance” on the Fresh Sound New Talent jazz label. Focusing on sound, melody and composition, the songs are a reflection of the relationships and experiences developing alongside of four of the finest musicians on the scene today. Matt Brewer (bass) and Rob Wilkerson (alto sax) both hail from Ruggiero’s home town and have played together for years. They are joined by long time friends and colleagues Tommy Crane (drums) and Frank LoCrasto (piano).