Othello Syndrome CD - Import

Lyricists: Sadiq Bey; Arrigo Boito; Julie Patton; Bunny Sigler.
Uri Caine: Uri Caine (piano); Nguyên Lê (guitar); Ralph Alessi (trumpet); John Hebert (bass instrument); Zach Danziger (drums).
Audio Mixer: Adrian VonRipka.
Recording information: Musikhochschule Detmold, Germany; Electronic Music Stud.
Editor: Adrian VonRipka.
Arrangers: Ralph Alessi; Bunny Sigler.
Keyboard virtuoso Uri Caine is one of those musicians who seems to be everywhere at once, appearing as a session man on countless projects. Yet Caine also fronts and records regularly with his own ensemble, and 2008's THE OTHELLO SYNDROME, based on the Shakespeare play, provides a fine cross-section of the group's efforts. Straddling a line between jazz fusion and groove-based pop, Caine's group, which features a large cast of musicians on winds, brass, electronics, and percussion,in addition to a rotating cast of vocalists, is sleek and accomplished. Some of Caine's other recordings emphasize his adventurousness, but this outing is smooth, accessible, and fun.
Keyboardist Uri Caine has previously explored the music of Bach, Mozart, Wagner and Beethoven, so it is hardly surprising that he continues to use classical composers as a source of inspiration for his improvisations. This outing draws on excerpts from Giuseppe Verdi's opera Otello, with the pianist incorporating his usual wild arrangements. Caine is obviously very familiar with the music but willing to take chances, as in his playful setting of "Fire Song" and a klezmer-like setting of "Drinking Song." Opera fans without a sense of humor will scoff at this recording, but Caine shows a love of the music, even in his madcap charts. The supporting cast includes saxophonist Ralph Alessi, guitarist Nguyên Lê, clarinetist Chris Speed, plus several vocalists and occasional use of electronics. ~ Ken DrydenJazzTimes (p.81) - "THE OTHELLO SYNDROME is obviously a meticulously crafted piece. While its daring and eclecticism will no doubt spark lively controversy, its heart points up the beauty of Verdi' score."