Featuring a lovely set of original compositions played by a highly disciplined Italian quintet, this very accessible recording is notable for its fine improvisations that hang in the air like dulcet perfume on a spring evening. Lucio Ferrara's six-string guitar has a romantic flair, his playing relaxed and soft, yet never too flowery. His writing is unusually attractive too, as several of his melodies, such as the opening "Regalo in 6/4," may stay with you. You might even think you've heard them before. Few, if any, of the musicians on this date are likely to be known to an American audience, but that should not deter the listener from tasting the refined delicacies found throughout. Trumpeter Maurizio Piancastelli may bring to mind early Miles or even 1950s Chet Baker, with his delicate tone and spare phrasing, while the confident and inspired, though laid-back, sounds of Alessandro Bosetti on soprano sax exemplify how this instrument should sound. Like some of the best work of drummer Shelly Manne, this recording hits the spot with exquisitely good taste, innovative solos that rarely stray from their roots, and all-around strong performances. This is the sort of unpretentious, quality, mainstream jazz that can be enjoyed on many levels, including that of just plain old down-home, swinging fun. ~ Steven Loewy