New Album
Much of the music on “My Little One” was inspired by my love for the classic recordings of Antonio Carlos Jobim, Billy Holiday, and Frank Sinatra. The songs are nostalgic in nature and may recall the feeling of classic standards, yet still have a modern aesthetic in approach. In creating this atmosphere, the band is made up of a wonderful group of musicians. The record features a Portuguese vocalist, Luisa Sobral; drummer, Dan Reiser; bassist, Gary Wang; and Pete Rende plays on a multitude of keyboard instruments.
Balance
Jazz Times Magazine
April 2008
Greg Ruggiero
BALANCE (Fresh Sound New Talent)
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.