Dominique Di Piazza has appeared on recordings as a sideman with
John McLaughlin, pianists
Antonio Faraò and
Gil Evans, and gypsy guitarist
Bireli Lagrene, but
Princess Sita marks his debut as a leader, joined by acoustic guitarist
Nelson Veras and drummer Manhu Roche. The electric bassist utilizes a five-string instrument, showing off his virtuoso talent with an unaccompanied setting of
Django Reinhardt's "Nuages," then sharing the spotlight with
Veras in the rapid-fire "Nemo."
Di Piazza changes the mood with his sauntering ballad "St. John," suggesting a mellow day at the beach. He unveils his intricate "Princess Sita" slowly, teasing the listener.
Di Piazza's "Dinello" is an exciting workout with tricky runs throughout. His arrangement of the late tenor saxophonist
Joe Henderson's "Recorda Me" is a subtle affair that is beautifully stated. One of the most impressive electric bassists on the jazz scene since
Jaco Pastorious,
Dominique Di Piazza deserves more opportunities to record as a leader. ~ Ken Dryden