John Pizzarelli's second Novus CD features the singer/guitarist with his regular trio (which also has pianist
Ken Levinsky and brother
Martin Pizzarelli on bass), an expanded rhythm section (including father
Bucky Pizzarelli on rhythm guitar) and as many as 15 horns. Among the other soloists are tenors
Scott Robinson,
Harry Allen and
Frank Wess, clarinetist
Walt Levinsky and trumpeters
Clark Terry and
Tony Kadleck.
Pizzarelli, who sings about half the songs, takes plenty of fine, melodic guitar solos. Most of the repertoire is comprised of swing standards -- including "I'm Confessin'," "When I Grow Too Old To Dream" and "I Cried for You" -- but the highlights also include a four-song "Baby" medley, "Seven on Charlie" (based on "Solo Flight"), and
Dave Frishberg's clever "Slappin' the Cakes on Me." ~ Scott Yanow